Stobhillgate First School Receives Improved Ofsted Ratings

“Exemplary Behaviour and attitudes to learning” are praised at Morpeth Stobhillgate First School in their most recent Ofsted report. 

After being inspected in late 2024, Stobhillgate First School is celebrating a positive Ofsted report, which ranked them ‘Good’ and ‘Outstanding’ in all areas of the report. 

This is a great improvement from the last time the school was inspected in 2019, when a ‘Requires Improvement’ rating was given. Our Trust alongside Stobhillgate First School and Headteacher Ben Henderson have worked hard to improve the school on all fronts, and it shows in the report. 

Headteacher Ben Henderson says, “The school has been on an incredible journey since we were last inspected in 2019 and due to the relentless hard work and commitment of the team, you will see the success and high standards we have in school. I could not be more proud as  Headteacher. I also want to extend thanks to our families for their commitment and support towards Stobhillgate First School and their child’s success.” 

The school received a ‘Good’ rating for quality of education, an ‘Outstanding’ rating for Behaviour and attitudes, an ‘Outstanding’ rating for personal development, a ‘Good’ rating for Leadership and management and an ‘Outstanding’ rating for the Early Years provision. 

In particular, the report noted: “The school provides a calm, welcoming environment for pupils. Children get the best possible start to their education in the wonderful early years setting. Pupils and staff have positive relationships. These make the pupils feel safe and valued.” 

This report echoes Stobhillgate First School’s values of inspiration, excellence, collaboration and empathy. The school strives to incorporate the curriculum and learning journey across all children, ensuring they are introduced to the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. In addition, Ofsted noted the participation of community events and the proactive approach to teaching students about diversity and inclusion. 

The Ofsted report echoes this by saying, “Pupils are kind, considerate and respectful of each other. In classes, there is a buzz of excitement as teachers prepare engaging, motivating lessons. Pupils are respectful of others; they listen to what their classmates say.

Stobhillgate First School is not just recognised by Ofsted as Outstanding, but also by parents. Parent view survey results have shown that 100% of parents agree that their child is happy at the school (96% strongly agree) and would recommend the school to another parent. 

To learn more about Stobhillgate First School visit https://sfs.cheviotlt.co.uk/ .