Village primary school near Shrewsbury praised for being 'warm, friendly and inclusive'

A report published this week praised the school for its work maintaining standards since a previous inspection.

The school's personal development for children has been graded as 'Outstanding' while the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes of children, early years provision and leadership and management have all been rated 'Good'.

The report said there have been several "positive" changes to the school's curriculum which has "improved the overall educational provision for pupils". The curriculum for children's' personal development was described as "exceptional."

Inspectors said pupils are "active citizens within their school and local village community". Ofsted said pupils litter pick and raise funds for local charities. 

Reading is said to be a "high priority" at the school and inspectors were notably impressed with the wide range of afterschool clubs and extra-curriculum activities on offer.

Pupils enjoy clubs such as crafts, science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Meanwhile, the school also offers additional activities including an evening of planet gazing, where pupils have "viewed the stars aligning across the Shropshire night skies". 

The report added that pupils’ talents and interests are "carefully considered". And, inspectors said visitors to a recent careers fair were "carefully selected" to meet the interests of pupils, including doctors, zoologists, entertainers and computer engineers.

The glowing Ofsted report said: "St Andrew’s CofE Primary School is at the heart of its local village community. The school is warm, friendly and inclusive. Pupils are highly valued and well cared for. Pupils’ character is well developed through the 'St Andrew’s Can Dos', such as respect and kindness. 

"Pupils are highly motivated to demonstrate these values. For example, the local village benefits from the school’s community involvement. This includes litter picking, raising money for charities and designing the village play park.

"As a result, the school’s motto of 'let my light shine', permeates in all aspects of the school’s work. Pupils’ behaviour across school is highly positive. Relationships between staff and pupils are nurturing and caring. Pupils are polite and courteous. At breaktimes, pupils have a wide range of activities they enjoy.

"Pupils love changing into their boots to play on the muddy fields. Other activities include netball and learning in the outdoor wooded area. Parents and carers are overwhelmingly positive about the experiences of their children here."

The full report can be read here.