Drapers’ Pyrgo celebrates Ofsted ‘Good’ grading across all areas
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Drapers’ Pyrgo Priory School has been graded ‘Good’ in all areas following an Ofsted inspection on 17–18 June 2025.
This recognition marks a major milestone for the school, which has undergone a period of rapid and substantial improvement since its last inspection. Much of this progress has been driven by the expertise and collaboration within the Drapers’ Multi-Academy Trust. The appointment of Executive Principal Trudy Spillane - who also leads Drapers’ Maylands Primary School - brought a clear, strategic vision to the school, underpinned by shared leadership, specialist knowledge, and hands-on collaboration across the schools. In addition, funding from the Trust’s sponsor, the Drapers’ Company, has played a key role in enhancing staffing, curriculum development and the overall learning environment.
At the feedback meeting on 18th June, Ofsted inspectors said that “changes in the school have been transformational”. Two key areas - Leadership and Early Years - were highlighted as bordering on outstanding, a significant achievement considering both areas had previously been graded as ‘Requires Improvement’.
A new, ambitious curriculum has been introduced to raise the quality of subject teaching and provide pupils with a richer, more comprehensive learning experience. Ofsted recognised these significant developments, with the report stating: “The school has made substantial changes to what pupils study. Pupils currently in school follow a broad and carefully considered curriculum. They produce work of high quality and are well prepared for the next stage of their learning.”
In the feedback meeting, Ofsted inspectors praised the dedication of staff during the period of rapid change. Achieving such significant progress while bringing existing staff along on the journey was no small feat. Staff consistently shared that they enjoy working at the school, have embraced the changes introduced by leadership, and feel well supported in terms of workload and wellbeing.
Pupils have also been praised for their adaptability and resilience through the implementation of a new curriculum and behaviour system. The Ofsted report said: “Pupils behave well in lessons and show high levels of focus. They understand and appreciate the new behaviour system… The school sets the highest expectations of behaviour. Staff and pupils alike understand these expectations.”
Discussing the SEND offering in the feedback meeting, Ofsted noted that the SENCO had done a huge amount of work in this area with support from the Trust and beyond. Pupils with SEND were supported to access the curriculum, identification processes were improved, and staff told inspectors that the information they receive on pupils with SEND was helpful and helped them to plan effective lessons.
Trudy Spillane, Executive Principal at Drapers’ Pyrgo said: “The outcome of the Ofsted inspection is a true reflection of the dedication and passion of the staff at Drapers’ Pyrgo. Since becoming Executive Principal in May 2024, I’ve been continually inspired by the pride and commitment shown by every member of the team. Each person has played a vital part in driving these improvements, and their collective effort has made a real difference.
“It’s a joy to see our pupils speak so proudly about their school and genuinely enjoy being here. Their excitement for learning and pride in their school is lovely to see, from Nursery through to Year 6.
“We’re excited to continue this journey of growth, building on the strong foundations already in place. Drapers’ Pyrgo has a rich history and a deeply rooted community spirit that we’re proud to celebrate and carry forward.
“I’m incredibly proud of the way our school community has supported one another and embraced positive change. Our pupils are engaged, resilient, and live out our school values every day: Be Kind, Be Keen, Be Considerate.”
Darren Luckhurst, CEO of Drapers’ Multi-Academy Trust, said: "When I stepped into my role as CEO, Drapers’ Pyrgo Priory School had recently been graded 'Requires Improvement' by Ofsted. From day one, it was my absolute priority to ensure the school received the support, resources, and encouragement it needed to drive meaningful change. I firmly believe that the pupils and staff at Drapers’ Pyrgo deserve nothing less than an outstanding education in a nurturing and aspirational environment.
“This latest Ofsted report is a powerful endorsement of the remarkable progress the school has made. It reflects the improvements implemented under the exceptional leadership of Trudy Spillane and her dedicated team. Their unwavering commitment to high standards, academic achievement, and the development of confident, well-rounded pupils has reshaped the school’s culture.
“This is a proud moment for the entire school community and for the Trust. It demonstrates what can be accomplished when we work together with clarity of purpose and shared ambition. We remain wholeheartedly committed to supporting Drapers’ Pyrgo, and all schools within our Trust, in delivering the very best for the children and families of Harold Hill”.
