A DAWLISH primary school has welcomed a new head teacher who is leading the way to make improvements.

Natasha Outhwaite has taken up the helm at Westliff School with the aim of improving the school’s culture and inspiring learning following an Ofsted inspection which said it needed improvement.

She said: ‘I’ve joined Westcliff at a time when we need to improve overall outcomes and attendance, and I’ve already started to implement a rapid improvement plan and highlighted areas in need of strengthening.’

An Ofsted inspection in September of the 340 pupil school said it ‘requires improvement’ following a good rating in 2019.

Inspectors said the school was ‘welcoming’ and

relationships between staff and pupils are warm and positive.

But since the previous inspection, pupils ‘have not achieved well enough’.

The report continued: ‘The trust and new school leadership know this.

‘They are working on the right things to bring about necessary improvements.

‘However, many positive changes have not had enough time to impact pupils’ learning fully.

‘Pupils are beginning to benefit from the recently developed ‘The Westcliff Way’.

‘However, some pupils lose focus in lessons and struggle to complete tasks to a high standard.’

Ms Outhwaite said the renewed vision and introduction of ‘Westcliff Way’ is already starting to see changes with ‘a better understanding of expectations, and increased focus among many pupils’.

She said: ’Our aim is to continue work on this alongside First Federation Trust, our governing body, as together we are committed to ensuring our pupils receive the best possible education in a safe and nurturing environment.’ 

Paul Walker, Chief Executive Officer of First Federation Trust, said: ‘Westcliff is extremely fortunate to have a team of highly skilled, dedicated and passionate staff who are being supported by Natasha in her new leadership role. 

‘We will continue to support the school in every way possible to make sure they remain on this positive trajectory.’   

Natasha concluded: ‘I’m looking forward to a positive future with Westcliff and want to focus on many steps we have already taken.

‘I’d like to thank our staff, parents, carers and pupils for their constant support and making me feel welcome in my new role.’