Nikki Purcell started her career at R.E.A.L. in 2010 and over the years has led on several Ofsted inspections. As she now hands over the reins of her position as Head of Schools, Nikki reflects on what it means to her receiving a successful Ofsted report for the last time in her role.
“This was our third standard inspection for R.E.A.L. Independent Schools, Blidworth since it opened in September 2013. I have had the honour to be Headteacher and lead on all three inspections. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed showcasing what we do on every occasion and I’m rather sad that this will be my last one ever as Head.
On this latest Ofsted visit, the inspectors recognised the “outstanding progress” that most of our learners make with regards to their behaviour and attitudes, which was a really emotional moment for our team.
They identified the “strong relationships” staff have built with learners and how skilled staff are at “motivating learners and keeping them focused on their learning.” Yet again, parent and learner feedback was very positive and sometimes overwhelming, with one parent saying that, since coming to our school, their child’s confidence has “sky-rocketed.”
Blidworth was our fourth school to be inspected by Ofsted in the last 15 months and, as with our previous visits, inspectors identified the same areas for development that we have placed within our school improvement plan.
This was reassuring for us and I know that Stephen Schmidt, the new Head of Schools, has already started work with the team to further improve our schools and take them on the next phase of their journey towards becoming outstanding schools.”
