Two primary schools in Walsall, West Midlands, have been recognised among the region’s best by Ofsted, the education watchdog. Goldsmith Primary and Reedswood E-ACT Primary are the only primaries in the West Midlands to receive three new ‘exceptional’ ratings each under Ofsted’s revamped inspection framework.
These outstanding results come as the schools prepare for the new academic year, marking the highest possible evaluation under the updated system. The previous top rating of ‘outstanding’ has been replaced by ‘exceptional’, reflecting a shift towards more detailed assessments. Rather than assigning a single overall grade, Ofsted now rates schools across multiple specific areas to provide a fuller understanding of their performance and to offer a fairer judgement to headteachers.
This overhaul addresses concerns about the former system, which could impose negative ratings on schools for extended periods based on a single day’s inspection.
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Exceptional grades remain rare, with only a select number awarded in the West Midlands this year, underscoring the impressive achievements of these two schools. Notably, both are situated in Walsall, a town facing socio-economic challenges, where schools often encounter greater obstacles.
Goldsmith Primary received exceptional ratings in inclusion; leadership and governance; and personal development and wellbeing. Meanwhile, Reedswood earned exceptional marks for achievement; leadership and governance; and personal development and wellbeing.
Ofsted praised Goldsmith Primary, stating: “Leaders have an astute and precise understanding of the school’s strengths and priorities. They have created a culture of exceptionally high aspiration that benefits every pupil. Their relentless focus on removing barriers for disadvantaged pupils has had a transformational impact on their academic outcomes, attendance, and wellbeing.”
Regarding Reedswood, inspectors noted: “Whatever their starting points, pupils at this school make remarkable progress. Year after year, pupils’ progress and attainment in national tests and assessments are significantly higher than average. This impressive level of achievement has its roots in the school’s unwavering commitment to securing pupils’ essential knowledge in English and mathematics.”