A DOWNEND school has been praised for its “clear ambition” to ensure all children achieve and thrive.
A team of four inspectors from Ofsted visited Stanbridge Primary School, in Stanbridge Road, in May.
The regulator’s report, published in June, said the school had achieved its ‘strong standard’ for Early Years provision for Reception pupils.
Stanbridge, which has 410 pupils aged from four to 11, achieved the regulator’s expected standard in all other areas: achievement, attendance and behaviour, curriculum and teaching, inclusion, leadership and governance, and personal development and well-being.
The inspectors said: “Pupils enjoy attending this school.
“They talk frequently about the school values of aspiration, belonging, courage and creativity.
“They reflect on how these are important for both their own lives and how they treat others. This is preparing them well for adult life.
“Pupils and staff have warm, respectful relationships with each other. Older pupils act as positive role models.”
The inspectors said Reception children have a “highly positive start to school”, are given wide-ranging opportunities to develop through play, and learn from a “skilfully constructed” curriculum.
The report said: “The school has an inclusive culture where there is a clear ambition for all pupils to achieve and thrive.
“Leaders have put in place a well-planned curriculum from the Reception year to Year 6.
“They have high expectations for what pupils should know and do by the end of each year.”
Teachers have strong subject knowledge, the report said, and leaders identify and address “individual barriers to learning”, improving achievement for disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs or disabilities.
The inspectors said pastoral support “is a strength of the school”, with pupils able to develop individual characters, talents and interests and experience memorable moments on trips and outdoor adventures, and through sports, crafts and music.
They said: “School and trust leaders have pupils’ best interests at the centre of the decisions they make.”
Head teacher David Payne said: “We are incredibly proud of this report and what it says about our school community.
“This recognition reflects the dedication of our staff, the enthusiasm of our children and the ongoing support of our families.