A school that opened up just years ago and now received its first Ofsted inspection has been told that “the work has paid off”.

Croxley Danes School opened in 2017 and after nearly five years of operation, the school was finally inspected by the school watchdog on January 25 and 26, receiving a ‘good’ rating.

In the report published on March 11, all factors inspected – the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development and leadership and management – were all considered ‘good’.

Inspectors noted that the school is “warm and welcoming”, and pupils have been “proud” of being part of the school’s journey since its opening.

The construction of the school at Baldwins Lane

The construction of the school at Baldwins Lane

The report reads: “Since 2017, leaders and trustees have worked determinedly to build and establish a brand-new school for the local community.

“From moving between buildings to ensuring that the facilities are fit for purpose, staff and pupils have risen to the challenge.

“The work has paid off as Croxley Danes’ pupils access a good-quality education and school experience.”

The school, part of the Danes Educational Trust, opened its doors in September 2017 at the St Clement Danes School site and moved to its current location at Baldwins Lane in Croxley Green in September 2020.

Headteacher Steve Thompson said: “This is a fantastic endorsement of the hard work and achievement of the whole school community.

“From the school’s inception in 2014 to its opening in 2017 we have worked to provide a quality school for all our staff and students.”

Dr Josephine Valentine, executive head teacher, and Mr Stephen Thompson, head teacher

Dr Josephine Valentine, executive head teacher, and Mr Stephen Thompson, head teacher

Dr. Valentine, CEO of the Danes Educational Trust, said: “I am thrilled with the outcome of this report. The community has a school they can be proud of.

“Not many new schools have had three different sites, built a brand-new school and been through a pandemic and lockdowns within the first five years.

“I am proud of what has been achieved and I want to thank Steve Thompson and his dedicated, hardworking staff and students for being part of such a successful school community.”