Darras Hall Primary School, Ponteland Ofsted report 2023

Darras Hall Primary School in Ponteland was rated overall as outstanding in its Ofsted report, following its inspection on November 14 and 15. 

The quality of education; behaviour and attitudes; personal development, and leadership and management were all rated outstanding, while its early years provision was rated good.

Victoria Parr with Darras Hall Primary School pupils (Image: Darras Hall Primary School)

The school is part of Pele Trust, which means other people in the trust have responsibility for running the school. The trust is run by chief executive officer, Kieran McGrane.

The report said: "This is a welcoming school with a true spirit of community," adding "The school’s provision for pupils’ personal development is exceptional."

"It provides pupils with a first-rate education that is both knowledge-rich and culturally diverse."

Victoria Parr, headteacher of Darras Hall Primary School, said: "Our whole school community is absolutely delighted with the inspection outcome. During recent years the school has successfully navigated a series of significant changes: an age range reorganisation from first to primary, the move to a brand new school building and the formation of a multi-academy trust.  

"I am delighted that our commitment to ensuring that our pupils receive a first-rate school experience has been recognised with an Outstanding judgement.  

"Our pupils’ thirst for learning, care for one another and exemplary behaviour is highlighted in the report. They are thoroughly deserving of this recognition.

"I am hugely proud of what we have achieved, together with the support of governors and Pele Trust colleagues. It is a privilege to work with such talented and committed individuals within our school community and I am thankful for the contribution that each of them has made to our school.

"Darras Hall is not a school that stands still; we will continue to grow, develop and ensure that our pupils are well-equipped to thrive in their ever-changing world." 

The report added: "Pupils produce work of a high quality. They achieve exceptionally well. Pupils behave in an exemplary fashion. They are polite, friendly and respectful of others.

"The school has established a broad and ambitious curriculum that provides pupils with a deep body of knowledge."