The world of education is full of stories of transformation and growth, and one such tale of triumph can be found in the heart of Norfolk, at St Mary’s Church of England Junior Academy in Long Stratton. This junior school, run by St Benet’s Multi Academy Trust, has undergone a remarkable journey, transforming from a school that required improvement to one that has been labelled “Outstanding” by Ofsted, the education inspectorate. The story of St Mary’s is one of dedication, hard work, and a commitment to creating a nurturing environment where pupils can thrive. At the helm of this transformation is Laura Richardson, the headteacher who has been instrumental in turning the school around since her appointment in January 2024.
The latest Ofsted report is a testament to the school’s progress, highlighting that “pupils love coming to this school” and that the school provides a “calm, quiet environment where pupils are happy and exceptionally well cared for.” These findings represent a marked improvement across all areas of the school’s operations, a far cry from the school’s previous inspection in 2023, which had resulted in a “Requires Improvement” status. The inspectors were impressed by the school’s ability to provide a supportive environment, where pupils feel valued and cared for. This is a direct result of the efforts of Laura Richardson and her team, who have worked tirelessly to build strong relationships with the community, families, and pupils. By fostering a culture of love, forgiveness, and intentional decision-making, the school has been able to create an environment that is conducive to learning and growth.
Laura Richardson’s approach to leadership is rooted in her commitment to the Christian values of love and forgiveness. She believes that by instilling these values in the pupils, the school can create a culture that is supportive and nurturing. As she explains, “We tell the children that they are loved and that we will forgive them when they make mistakes.” This approach has had a profound impact on the school, allowing pupils to feel safe and supported as they navigate the challenges of learning and growing. The school’s commitment to community is also evident in its approach to working with families, providing support and guidance on issues such as housing, financial hardship, and domestic violence. This holistic approach to education has been praised by Ofsted inspectors, who were impressed by the school’s ability to provide a comprehensive support system for its pupils.
The journey of St Mary’s is one that is both inspiring and instructive. The school’s transformation is a testament to the power of dedicated leadership, a commitment to values, and a willingness to work collaboratively with the community. As a standalone academy until 2021, St Mary’s joined St Benet’s group, becoming part of a larger network of schools that share a common vision and values. Today, the school has 159 children attending across four year groups, with 31% of pupils having Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) requirements. The school’s ability to cater to the diverse needs of its pupils is a testament to its commitment to inclusivity and its dedication to providing a high-quality education for all.
The full Ofsted report for St Mary’s Church of England Junior Academy is a detailed and comprehensive document that highlights the school’s many strengths. The report praises the school’s leadership, teaching, and pupil outcomes, noting that the school has made significant progress in all areas. The inspectors were impressed by the school’s ability to provide a calm and supportive environment, where pupils feel happy and well cared for. The report also highlights the school’s commitment to community, noting that the school works closely with families and provides support on a range of issues. As Laura Richardson and Mark Carlyle, Improvement Director for St Benet’s Multi Academy Trust, celebrate the school’s achievements, they are aware that the journey of transformation is ongoing, and that there is still much work to be done to ensure that the school continues to thrive.
As we reflect on the story of St Mary’s, we are reminded of the power of education to transform lives and communities. The school’s journey from a “Requires Improvement” status to an “Outstanding” one is a testament to the dedication and hard work of its leaders, teachers, and pupils. The school’s commitment to values such as love, forgiveness, and intentional decision-making has created a culture that is supportive and nurturing, allowing pupils to thrive and reach their full potential. As we look to the future, we can learn from the example of St Mary’s, recognizing the importance of community, leadership, and values in creating a high-quality education system that benefits all. The story of St Mary’s is one that inspires and motivates, reminding us that with dedication, hard work, and a commitment to values, we can create a brighter future for all.
