PRIMARY school pupils are celebrating after helping to secure a top report for their academy.
West Park Academy, Darlington, has been hailed ‘good’ across the board after being inspected by officials from Ofsted.
Inspectors highlighted the passion and enthusiasm of principal Catherine Thompson and the talents of her deputy Sam Hirst, as well as the inspiring teaching that gets the most from pupils.
Lessons were applauded for being thought-provoking, interesting and challenging allowing pupils to think critically for themselves.
The quality of the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development was said to make a telling contribution to children’s positive, friendly and helpful attitude.
Pupils’ behaviour was described as exemplary with hardworking children said to be keen to learn. Attendance is above the national average and participation rates high in activities in and outside school hours.
Adults and pupils exhibited mutual respect and trust, which played a strong part in children’s good achievement. Staff were said to be enthusiastic and skilled.
Inspectors pinpointed high quality care and a nurturing atmosphere with pupil relationships typified by kindness, respect and tolerance, allowing them all to feel safe and happy.
Inspectors described the curriculum as rich and interesting, which helped to bring learning to life, stretch their thinking and deepen their understanding.
Academy directors, praised for their support and ambitions for the school, were said to have a good grip on its strategic direction.
Inspectors highlighted the highly positive atmosphere in the academy and its enhanced reputation in the local community.
The school became an academy in 2011 and the inspection marked the first Ofsted report under the new self-managing regime.
Inspectors judged as good the five key areas of leadership and management, behaviour and safety of pupils, quality of teaching, achievement of pupils and early years provision.
Principal Catherine Thompson said: “I’m delighted the inspectors recognised the strengths, ambitions and talents of the school, including the efforts of staff, governors, pupils and their families.
“This is a very happy school in an area of Darlington undergoing hugely exciting change. The feeling of positivity, which pervades the academy and reaches the community, brings a high degree of success to pupils’ learning. I am proud to be principal of such a wonderful community.”
Audrey Meredith, six, added: “We performed a play for the inspectors, the Enormous Turnip, and they liked it.”
