ONE of the smallest schools in the country has made a big impression on Government inspectors who described its pupils as impeccable.
Pupils were celebrating with staff yesterday after Ofsted rated Leeming and Londonderry Community Primary School, between Northallerton and Bedale, good with outstanding features.
Inspectors described the pupils as impeccable, polite and caring. Their personal development, behaviour and welfare was said to be outstanding.
Inspectors rated as good the effectiveness of leadership and management, the quality of teaching, learning and assessment, outcomes for pupils and early years provision.
“Pupils enjoy coming to school and their attendance is within the highest ten per cent of all schools nationally,” the report stated.
“They are extremely proud of their school, its welcoming, inclusive ethos and strong stand against bullying. Pupils instinctively help others when needed and are most supportive of new pupils.”
Head teacher Rowena Sykes said: “The school really is like a big family and I am delighted this has come through in the report. We are one of the smallest schools but we use that to our advantage and for the benefit of the children.
“The pupils are the most important people in the school and have made rapid progress. The school remains at the heart of the community.”
Inspectors had high praise for school leaders’ tireless efforts to improve the pupils’ achievements and the quality of teaching.
They highlighted the curriculum for providing a wide range of exciting themes. “Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is excellent and British values are strongly promoted,” the report stated.
Governors were also lauded for their involvement in school life and appropriate use of their respective skills.
The quality of teaching was extoled as was subject leaders’ ability to increase their skills rapidly and contribute to school improvement.
Chairman of governors David Fishburn said: “We are delighted with the school’s progress and this is a rewarding outcome for everyone involved.
“It has been achieved by the enthusiastic and ambitious approach of the head teacher and staff who have worked tirelessly to improve and raise children’s standards of attainment.
“We are delighted that Ofsted has recognised we are a good school with many outstanding features, that it is a happy and secure place where pupils feel safe and cared for.”