Ofsted recognises positive progress at Lyndhurst Primary School

Pupils at Lyndhurst Primary School in Dukinfield are “happy and safe” at a “caring school”, according to its latest Ofsted inspection.

The school was inspected on 21 and 22 July 2026 and meets the expected standard in all areas inspected, with inspectors also recognising Lyndhurst’s open and positive culture of safeguarding, where pupils are made safer and feel safe. Inspectors highlighted the changes made at Lyndhurst and leaders’ commitment to raising standards of academic and personal achievement.

The report praises the supportive relationships between pupils and staff and notes that pupils are proud to uphold the school’s values and have positive attitudes towards their learning.

Inspectors also highlighted improvements to the school’s early years provision, effective phonics teaching and Lyndhurst’s commitment to inclusion. The report notes that leaders are determined to overcome barriers to learning and wellbeing, with pupils clear that “everyone belongs at their school.”

Gemma Patterson, Headteacher at Lyndhurst Primary School, said:

“We are delighted with this positive report and proud that it reflects the caring and inclusive school community we have worked so hard to create at Lyndhurst.

“Our children are at the heart of everything we do, so it is particularly rewarding to see their achievements, attitudes to learning and sense of belonging recognised. I would like to thank our pupils, staff, families, governors and colleagues across our Trust who have all played an important part in our journey.”

Lyndhurst joined Victorious Academies Trust in October 2023 and inspectors highlighted the effective and timely action taken by school leaders to bring about positive change. The report also notes the collaborative work with other schools across the Trust to develop new ideas.

Karen Burns, CEO of Victorious Academies Trust, said:

“We are incredibly proud of the progress at Lyndhurst and delighted that this report reflects the dedication and hard work of Gemma and her team.

“We are especially pleased to see the improvements being made across the school highlighted by inspectors, alongside the inclusive environment that has been created for its pupils. The whole Trust is proud of our Lyndhurst community and we look forward to supporting the school as it continues to build on its achievements.”