MP for Harlow Robert Halfon paid a visit to high-performing Jerounds Primary Academy to congratulate pupils and staff on their recent glowing Ofsted report and to see first-hand the school’s success. 

Mr Halfon said that “every child is given the best possible start” at Jerounds Primary Academy, which was recently rated Good by Ofsted.

During his visit, Mr Halfon met the Head of School, Laura Ciftci, pupils and staff to discuss how, since joining NET Academies Trust, the school has gone above and beyond to provide its children with exceptional educational opportunities, enabling them to unlock their full potential.

The school joined the NET Academies Trust after its Ofsted inspection in 2017, when it was rated in the lowest possible category. Staff and pupils were proud to share with Mr Halfon, who is also Minister of State for Skills, Apprenticeships and Higher Education, their transformation journey.

The recent Ofsted report praised Jerounds for creating an ambitious and creative curriculum which ensures pupils enjoy their learning and achieve well. 

The pupils also enjoyed hearing about Mr Halfon’s role in Parliament and his life as an MP, asking a range of thoughtful and insightful questions.

Finally, Mr Halfon paid a visit to the school’s extensive library to hear all about Jerounds’ over-riding passion for reading, which it has instilled in its pupils. The school’s commitment to literacy had also been highlighted in the latest Ofsted report, with inspectors noting that ‘reading is strong, and pupils rapidly learn to read and enjoy books’.

Robert Halfon, Member of Parliament for Harlow, said:

“I was delighted to visit Jerounds Primary School on Friday, following its successful Ofsted inspection at the end of last year. It was wonderful to see all the improvements that have been made by NET Academies Trust and under the great leadership of their Head, Mrs Ciftci.

“The staff’s enthusiasm for giving children the best opportunities was clear to see and every student I met was passionate about learning. I look forward to following Jerounds’ progress and know that every child is being given the best possible start to develop to reach their full potential and take their first steps on the ladder of opportunity.”

Laura Ciftci, Head of School at Jerounds Primary Academy, said:

“We were incredibly pleased to be able to welcome Mr Halfon into our school following our positive report. We really enjoyed showcasing the wide range of opportunities we provide our pupils and the way we have ensured Jerounds Primary Academy is at the very heart of its community.

“It is lovely to have the support of Mr Halfon as we continue to raise the aspirations and life chances of our pupils.”