Published at 15:44, Wednesday, 27 January 2010

A SCHOOL has been given a glowing Ofsted report for giving its pupils outstanding care, guidance and support and playing a vital role in the community.

Government inspectors gave Black Combe Junior School a rating of ‘good’ after spending two days at the Millom school last month and watching six lessons.

They visited Year 5 and 6 pupils involved in a secondary school project and held meetings with governors, staff, pupils and parents.

The school received “outstanding” and “good” marks in the different assessment categories.

The report praised the “caring supportive and stimulating environment” provided for youngsters, who told inspectors they found learning there fun and felt safe and well-cared for.

Students with special needs and disabilities were described as progressing as well as others, thanks to their needs being identified early and strong support from staff.

The report reads: “The outstanding care, guidance and support provided for pupils means that pupils now achieve well and show excellent attitudes to learning.

“Pupils do well because of good, engaging teaching and an exciting curriculum that finds many ways of enriching their lives and broadening their horizons.

“The wealth of extra-curricular clubs and joint projects with other schools ensures that every pupil can follow their individual interests.”

According to the Ofsted report, good leadership and management from head teacher Helen Webber have made a huge difference to the school’s success.

Mrs Webber said: “We are delighted that the thorough, engaging teaching and an exciting curriculum have been recognised. The key to all of this is the commitment and hard work that the whole team have to the school and the support of parents and the community.”

As well as recording their own findings, the Ofsted inspectors spoke to pupils and parents about their experiences of the school.

One parent told inspectors: “We only moved to Millom at the start of this school year and cannot believe how our son has excelled since moving to this school.”

The report also praised the pupils’ personal development.

Students at the school were described as having a strong awareness of moral, social and religious cultures, and the need for a healthy lifestyle.

The school was also commended for having a strong local influence, and pupils were described as being heavily involved in community projects.

Margaret Bratley, the school’s chairwoman of governors, said: “This excellent report reflects the rich experience for children at Black Combe School and is fitting recognition of the hard work and commitment of the staff.”

Published by http://www.whitehavennews.co.uk