Central Primary School in Watford has improved to become "good", according to its latest Ofsted report.

The school, based in Derby Road, had been rated "satisfactory" before an inspection in June upgraded its status.

The report found that Central Primary was a good school because:

  • Pupils achieve well and make good progress
  • Achievement in English and mathematics is good. Attainment in these subjects at Key Stage 2 is now better than in previous years and is in line with the national average.
  • Children settle quickly into the Early Years Foundation Stage and make good progress in all areas of learning
  • Consistently good teaching means that pupils do well in all classes
  • Pupils say that teachers make the lessons interesting and are very good at helping them to improve their work
  • The school is improving rapidly because the leaders identify any possible weaknesses in its performance and give teachers clear guidance on how they can improve both teaching and achievement
  • The governing body supports the school well and has the skills to make sure that leaders take the right decisions
  • Pupils say they feel safe, and they behave with courtesy and respect to teachers, visitors and each other

The report added that the school was not yet "outstanding" because "progress in writing at Key Stage 2 is not as rapid as in reading and mathematics", and that, "although overall attendance has risen rapidly, some pupils do not attend as regularly as others in the school."

The inspection judgement said the achievement of pupils, quality of teaching, behaviour and safety of pupils, and leadership and management at the school were all rated "good".

Regarding, the governance of the school, the report added: "The governors regularly visit and meet with a wide range of staff to gather evidence about how well the school is doing.

"They know and ask questions about the achievement and progress of different groups of pupils in the school, including those for whom the school receives additional funding through the pupil premium.

"Governors understand their role very well and provide good challenge to senior leaders. "Through prudent budgeting, they are ensuring the school’s financial stability.

"They make sure that the school’s policies and procedures for safeguarding fully meet national requirements. Governors check pay decisions for teachers.

"They demand that pupils’ progress justifies better pay and promotion."