Another exceptional Ofsted is being celebrated by staff, children and families at Chilton Primary in Ramsgate.

The gold star report is ‘ungraded’ and it finds the school “remains outstanding for its overall effectiveness” – maintaining the top class performance from its previous Ofsted in 2019.

Inspectors identified no next steps for improvement, highlighting the school’s consistently high standards across all areas. – and praised the highly professional, motivated and dedicated leadership, staff, trustees and governors.

It states: “This is a school that places no limits on what pupils can achieve, both academically and personally.

“Exceptionally kind and respectful relationships between staff and pupils are the hallmark of daily routines. Around school, pupils share cheerful smiles and waves with friends and staff, creating a welcoming and inclusive community where they feel safe.

“Pupils’ impeccable behaviour, highly positive attitudes to learning, and strong social and collaborative skills contribute to this uplifting atmosphere.”

It found that Chilton “fosters a deep love of learning which is reflected in pupils’ high attendance rates. Across subjects, pupils excel academically and achieve exceptionally well. They are very well prepared for the next stage of their education.”

It says the school “has established an ambitious and high-quality standard of education” with a “well-structured and interesting curriculum which builds pupils’ knowledge progressively.”

Staff use their “excellent subject knowledge” to present and model new learning precisely. The report continues: “They design engaging activities that not only bring the curriculum to life but also deepen pupils’ understanding.”

Pupil personal development is ‘exceptional’ – a broad range of trips and experiences enrich pupils’ interests and nurture their talents. Pupils develop a strong sense of positive citizenship.

Ofsted added: “Pupils demonstrate exemplary attitudes towards learning, following school routines with confidence and maturity. Classrooms are calm and peaceful. This is because mutual respect defines the strong relationships between staff and pupils. This stems from ‘The Chilton Way,’ which is firmly embedded in every aspect of daily life.

“Staff feel valued and take pride in working in an environment that places pupils’ success front and centre. They appreciate the strong support they receive, particularly regarding their well-being. Parents and carers are overwhelmingly positive.”

Head of School Alex McAuley said: “We are absolutely thrilled that Ofsted has once again recognised Chilton as an exceptional school. The report celebrates our culture of joy, ambition and inclusion – and that’s all down to the incredible work of our staff, the enthusiasm of our children, and the unwavering support of our families.

"This report captures what makes Chilton so special – from Wake and Shake to our rich curriculum and the warmth of relationships across the school. I’m particularly proud that inspectors saw no areas for improvement; that is a rare and remarkable achievement.

"At Chilton, we believe there should be no limits on what children can achieve – and it’s clear that Ofsted saw that in action. Every member of our team should feel immensely proud of this outcome. Together, we’ve created a school community where children flourish, academically and personally."

Chilton is a partner member of the Viking Academy Trust with Upton Juniors in Broadstairs and Ramsgate Arts Primary. The Trust’s Director of Education Kate Law said: “The inspector’s observations accurately highlight the exceptional teaching, learning, care and support that happens day in and day out at Chilton.

“The entire staff team show passion and dedication in ensuring that every child gets the best possible experience. We are all extremely proud to be part of this community and I am thrilled that staff and children alike have been recognised for their efforts in building such a fantastic place to be.”

Viking Academy’s chair of trustees Neil Roby added: “Our schools have performed excellently in Ofsted inspections with Chilton and Upton both praised as outstanding and Ramsgate Arts Primary highly regarded as a

school that continues to develop and offer a creative arts speciality that is unique for this area.”

From September 16 Chilton welcomes prospective parents to experience the day-to-day atmosphere and ethos first-hand. Contact the school office on 01843 597695 to arrange an appointment.

*What is an ungraded inspection: Ofsted state: “Until September 2024, on a graded (section 5) inspection we gave schools an overall effectiveness grade, in addition to the key and provision judgements. Overall effectiveness grades given before September 2024 will continue to be visible on school inspection reports and on Ofsted's website. From September 2024 graded inspections will not include an overall effectiveness grade. This school was, before September 2024, judged outstanding for its overall effectiveness.

**The full Ofsted report is available on the school website online –www.chiltonprimary.co.uk

Chilton Primary is part of the Viking Academy Trust with partner schools Upton Juniors and Ramsgate Arts Primary.

For more information contact Head of School Alex McAuley on 01843 597695