'˜One big family'-School proves it's top of class

The education watchdog gave St Mary’s Junior and Infant School, Mill Bank, the top rating in every area following an inspection visit in February.

Inspectors said: “The head teacher leads the school with an absolute conviction that all pupils can and will succeed.

“The school offers its pupils a rich and varied curriculum that is most expertly and imaginatively taught by staff who are constantly seeking to improve.”

They added that pupils make outstanding progress and praised their behaviour.

The report also outlined that children are “polite, kind and aware of the needs of others”, they love going to school and are well-prepared for their next steps.

Attendance at the school is also consistently above the national average.

Inspectors added: “The early years provision is very well led. Teaching is outstanding. Children are safe and happy and their well-being is nurtured carefully. This approach gets children off to a flying start in their school careers.”

Head teacher Matthew Hopkins said: “The result from our recent inspection has affirmed what many people associated with the school have known for some time.

“All the governors, staff and pupils are delighted that the school now has recognition for their hard work.

“Our school is a warm, inclusive environment which allows the children who attend here to feel part of one big family.

“We all believe that this approach has had some part to play in securing our recent successes.

“It is my belief that all children are capable of great things, here at St Mary’s we find ways to free this greatness, giving all the children who come here the freedom to fly.”

The school has limited spaces left for new pupils and visits can be organised by contacting the school directly.