Pyrland was inspected by Ofsted in January 2025, only three weeks after the former Head Teacher Ms Webber had left the school. A deferral based on this was requested, however it was declined and the inspection went ahead.
Following the inspection, concerns were raised with Ofsted about the process and the school has subsequently received an apology. However this has not changed the outcome of the report.
Whilst we acknowledge there is still some way to go on the journey at Pyrland and we have already started to respond to Ofsted’s feedback, there is particular disappointment that the inspectors failed to recognise the progress made since the pandemic, such as:
• 2024 GCSE exam results were the best student outcomes since 2018 (outside of the pandemic period).
• More students than ever achieving standard and strong passes in English and Maths (outside of the pandemic period).
• For the first time in the history of the school there is a healthy student roll and a waiting list of children wanting to join.
• A new house system has been created to promote inclusivity and belonging.
• Last year it ran a highly successful theatrical production, the first since 2010.
• There is now an enhanced enrichment offer through the school’s “Pyrland Promise”, which provides every child with a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities.
• Investment and development of an enhanced learning provision has been made to help meet the needs of children with SEND.
We are aware that parents and carers might be concerned about the report and there will shortly be an opportunity to come into school and hear about the progress already being made since the school started working alongside the Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership.