Hookstone Chase Primary School in Harrogate is celebrating retaining a "Good" rating in its latest Ofsted inspection.
The report, which follows an ungraded inspection of the school in November 2024, found that the school “has taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at the previous inspection” in which it received a Good rating.
Inspectors observed that “children enjoy coming to school and are happy here”, that they have “strong and positive relationships” with each other, and staff and that “there is a friend for everyone at Hookstone Chase”.
The school, part of Northern Star Academies Trust (NSAT), was praised by inspectors for developing a “broad and balanced curriculum” in which “work is well sequenced and pupils achieve well”.
Inspectors noted that the phonics programme, which forms the basis of early reading, had been well chosen to meet the needs of the school’s youngest pupils and that “well-trained staff deliver the programme effectively”.
As a result, children “develop an early love of learning to read” and “outcomes in early reading are high”.
The school’s commitment to inclusion was also acknowledged, with inspectors observing that “teachers skilfully use a range of resources” so that all pupils can learn alongside their peers.
The report also outlines how staff “ensure pupils receive the help they need to succeed in all areas of their work”.
The visit by Ofsted’s inspectors comes at the end of just two terms of leadership by the school’s new Headteacher Mr James Hughes and Deputy Headteacher Miss Hannah Norton.
Mr Hughes expressed pride in the school’s achievement and acknowledged the hard work of the whole school community.
He said:
"Receiving such positive recognition from Ofsted is a testament to the dedication and skill of our staff, the positivity and determination of our pupils, and the warm support from our school community.
“A great deal of work has gone into developing our teaching and curriculum at Hookstone Chase, and we were pleased that the inspectors recognised this, as well as the outcomes that our pupils are achieving.
“I was especially pleased that inspectors were able to see the strength of the work we do to develop our pupils on a personal level, for example through pupil leadership roles, our behaviour expectations, diversity awareness and online safety lessons”.
Inspectors also highlighted the positive behaviour of the pupils, noting that they behave well in lessons and are keen to learn.
The report also praised the school’s work to develop pupils’ character, observing that “pupils know that they are unique and learn about tolerance and diversity.
Jenn Plews, CEO of NSAT, said:
“This 'Good' rating is a reflection of the hard work and unity demonstrated by Mr Hughes and everyone in the Hookstone Chase community.
“We are immensely proud of this accomplishment and look forward to continuing our journey of growth and success.”
Harrogate-based Sporting Influence Foundation to tackle 24 climbs in 24 hours
Giant vegetables take centre stage at Harrogate Autumn Flower Show
Alpamare waterpark to be sold to 'protect its future' with private investment
Roadworks causing growing disruption in Harrogate and Knaresborough, officials admit
Yorkshire artist brings Harrogate's Old Market Hall back to life
Martin House hosts first children's palliative care conference
Judge appointed to lead inquiry into North Yorkshire mental health trust
Harrogate group raise more than £40,000 with cycle to Bordeaux
Scotton pub wins Tripadvisor award for seventh year running
Almost 2,000 people sign Knaresborough landslip petition
Police appeal after Range Rover damaged in Knaresborough
St Aidan's teacher recognised at national Teacher of the Year Awards
Bramham Park to host its first Christmas market
Harvest gown unveiled for flower show's 50th anniversary
Ripon's Mario's Restaurant named among Tripadvisor's top 10%
Harrogate Rugby Club reveals plans for clubhouse expansion and padel courts
Police appeal after Lister House minibus vandalised in Ripon
Council urged to "show me the money" and provide evidence of home-to-school policy change savings
Kate Mosse and Prue Leith among stars of Harrogate Literature Festival
Ripon among UK's top cities for missing parcels
