Sponsored Editorial

Sunny Bank Primary School is proud to announce that the school has been judged ‘Good’ in all areas by Ofsted.

The comprehensive report highlights the school’s unwavering commitment to excellence, student well-being and community engagement.

Head of School Jack Allen said, “I am extremely pleased with the final report. It acknowledges our high expectations, the care we provide for our pupils and our drive to help them be the best they can be.

Our expert reading teachers and our relentless focus on reading have clearly made a positive impact. Every member of Sunny Bank staff is dedicated to ensuring our children achieve the very best outcomes.”

The Ofsted report emphasises several key strengths of Sunny Bank Primary School:

- High Expectations: Pupils are well-aware of the importance of their learning and are motivated to meet high standards.
- Care and Aspiration: Pupils are well cared for and strive to live up to the school’s motto, “be the best you can be.”
- Focus on Reading: There is a strong emphasis on reading throughout the school, with staff demonstrating expertise in teaching early reading.
- Support for SEND Pupils: The needs of pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) are carefully addressed, ensuring they can succeed across the curriculum.
- Equality and Passion: Pupils are passionate about equality and their educational journey.

Since joining The Island Learning Trust in 2020, alongside Minster and Halfway Houses Primary Schools, Sunny Bank has been transformed. The Trust has a total commitment to improving the life chances and aspirations of pupils and the vision that all children will 'be the best they can be' is clearly evidenced through the school’s recent Ofsted and amazing pupil outcomes.

Now children at Sunny Bank outperform the National Average, with 100% of pupils meeting the expected standard in reading and 60% achieving the higher standard. Additionally, 80% of students met the expected standard in Reading, Writing and Maths; significantly higher than the National Average that currently sits at 61%.

Sunny Bank Primary School is at the heart of the community with active parental involvement which enriches the student experience. The school’s engagement with local organisations, such as Murston Church and Murston Heart, as well as frequent parent open afternoons, underscores its role as a community hub.

Parent feedback highlights the school’s positive impact:

- “It’s a brilliant school. My children are completely different since moving here; they are really happy and making good progress.”
- “Teachers are passionate and encouraging; issues are dealt with quickly.”
- “The focus on the child’s well-being and education is exceptional.”

Current Year 4 student Mark notes, “There’s lots of people who can help you and everyone is responsible for their learning,” while Year 6 student Jasmine shares, “I get to read, see my friends and most importantly learn with adults who help me.”

The school’s commitment to student happiness and its welcoming environment are evident in pupil satisfaction surveys and there is an ever-growing waiting list to join Sunny Bank.

Sunny Bank is currently offering tours for the Reception class intake for September 2025 and for Nursery intake in January. Please see below for the Reception and Nursery open days. Come and see the school for yourself.

Reception Open Days

- Friday 11 October 09:30 – 10:00
- Friday 18 October 09:30 – 10:00
- Thursday 7 November 10:00 – 10:30
- Thursday 7 November 17:00 – 17:30
- Thursday 28 November 13:30 - 14:00
- Friday 13 December 10:00 – 10:30

Nursery stay and play

- Tuesday 8 October 13:30 – 14:30
- Thursday 14 November 10:00 – 11:00

For more information or to schedule a personal tour, please contact the school office at sboffice@tiltrust.org or telephone 01795 473 891.