(Image: HIGH CONISCLIFFE PRIMARY SCHOOL)
A Darlington primary school is celebrating after Ofsted inspectors praised its pupils’ behaviour, attendance and strong sense of belonging.
High Coniscliffe CE Primary School’s final Ofsted report praises excellent behaviour and an inclusive environment where pupils thrive.
The school received a ‘strong’ rating for attendance and behaviour, while all other areas met the ‘expected’ standard and safeguarding requirements were met.
Inspectors described pupils’ behaviour as “excellent across the school” and said they consistently show the school’s values and ethos.
The report praised staff for creating a productive learning environment where pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve well and produce high-quality work.
Reading was a particular strength, with inspectors saying pupils learn to read fluently and confidently and many develop a genuine love of books.
High Coniscliffe CE Primary School. (Image: HIGH CONISCLIFFE PRIMARY SCHOOL)
Ofsted praised the school’s inclusive approach, saying staff know pupils well and tailor support to their individual needs.
Inspectors said this gives children “a real sense of belonging in their school”.
Headteacher Kaye Boyce said she was delighted the report reflected the school’s community-focused ethos.
She said: "I am incredibly proud of our children and staff.
"What means the most to me is that the report captures the school that we know every day – a place where children are known as individuals, feel that they belong and are supported to achieve their best.
"Our children were simply themselves throughout the inspection, and I couldn't have asked for anything more."
(Image: HIGH CONISCLIFFE PRIMARY SCHOOL)
"This outcome is a reflection of the commitment of our whole school community, and I am enormously grateful to our staff, governors, families and Trust for their continued support," she added.
The Ofsted inspection follows a successful SIAMS inspection less than a year ago, which found the school was living up to its foundations as a Church school.
Inspectors praised Melrose Learning Trust’s support, training and development opportunities, as well as governors’ and trustees’ role in holding school leaders to account.
The report comes during a period of growth for the school, which opened a new on-site nursery in September after securing funding through the Department for Education's School-Based Nursery Capital Grant programme.
The school is also part of the Government’s early adopter breakfast club programme.
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Mrs Boyce added: "There is a lot to look forward to at High Coniscliffe.
"Our new nursery is now open and we continue to welcome enquiries from families interested in both nursery and school places."
"We are incredibly proud of our school community and excited about everything that lies ahead for High Coniscliffe."