Fifth outstanding Ofsted in a row for Welwyn Garden City school
Retiring Lakeside School headteacher Judith Chamberlain (front, centre) and her staff celebrate a fifth outstanding OFSTED report in a row. Picture: Danny Loo - Credit: Archant
A Welwyn Garden City headteacher is retiring on a high after the school gained an ‘outstanding’ Ofsted report for the fifth time in a row.
Lakeside School. Picture: Danny Loo - Credit: Archant
Last Tuesday, Lakeside School, which caters for children with disabilities, received the news that following its inspection on February 20 it had earned top marks.
Headteacher Judith Chamberlain said she was “extremely proud” to be leaving the school on such a high note before she retires in July.
Mrs Chamberlain started at the school as a part-time teacher 32 years ago and became headteacher 12 years later in February 1998.
She said: “I know I will be leaving a school which is ready to move onwards to even greater success.”
Retiring Lakeside School headteacher Judith Chamberlain. Picture: Danny Loo - Credit: Archant
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The short inspection was the first to be carried out since the school was judged to be ‘outstanding’ in October 2013.
In the report the inspector expressed how the leadership team had maintained the outstanding quality of education since the last visit.
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Staff were deemed as “inspirational”, “committed” and as “exceptional” leaders for the children.
It was noted that parents were “overwhelmingly” positive about the school with 28 responses being sent in to Ofsted.
One parent told inspectors: “Lakeside is incredible, every person there is kind and genuinely caring.”
The school was advised to work on pupils’ progress in reading so that it is as outstanding as it is in other areas.
Mrs Chamberlain added: “I am very proud of the Lakeside staff team.
“They work tirelessly to enable our wonderful pupils to flourish.
“It is a multi-disciplinary team who all work together to enable our pupils to overcome their challenges and make excellent progress.”
Speaking of her retirement, the grandmother is excited for her second grandchild to arrive in the summer and plans to spend a lot of time with them.
Mrs Chamberlain is also hoping to return to the school as a volunteer to help around.
She said: “I had the best job ever.
“What other job can you walk around getting hugs from children?
“I loved how every day was different and, although sometimes challenging, I always had an amazing group of staff around for support.”
