A VILLAGE primary school has achieved ‘Outstanding’ in all five categories following its recent inspection by Ofsted.

Walford Nursery and Primary School was judged on the quality of its education; pupil’s behaviour and attitudes, children’s personal development, its leadership and management and its early years provision with an overall effectiveness being ‘Outstanding’.

Gareth Morgan, the lead inspector, opens his report with: “The moment you step over the threshold at Walford, you know this is a school that values education; a place where pupils are happy, confident and immersed in their learning.”

Throughout the report the inspector observes that pupils display an impressive thirst for knowledge and their behaviour is exemplary both in and out of the classroom.

Mr Morgan added: “Three words that sum up the Walford curriculum are: precise, deliberate and innovative. There is a tangible ambition for success. In all subjects and areas of learning.”

The inspector noted that the school had a number of exciting innovations, such as Walford University, which inspires pupils and supplements the already strong curriculum.

“There is a culture of constant improvement and innovation here,” Mr Morgan said. “The leadership at all levels has been highly successful in providing staff with effective professional development.”

Mr Morgan observed: “This is a school that dreams big. The range of opportunities that pupils have to enrich their education is enormous. Whether it is entering national engineering competitions, working for a degree at Walford University or going on a residential trip to London, pupils relish and benefit from these experiences.

“Through personal, social and health education, and many other activities across the year, pupils become familiar with equality, the importance of respecting differences and fundamental British values. They are well prepared for their move to their next school and for life in modern Britain.”

Louise George, the school’s headteacher said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have been awarded outstanding in all areas in our recent Ofsted inspection.

“This achievement reflects the incredible dedication of the staff team, the hard work of our pupils and the dedicated support of our community. A

“t Walford Nursery and Primary School, we believe in nurturing every child from the very beginning, and this recognition shows that our pupils are having a remarkable head start in both their academic journey and personal growth. 

“This is a shared achievement, and it is a proud and exciting moment for everyone connected to our school.”

The school’s curriculum was highly praised by the inspector for being precise, deliberate and innovative, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, receive the support they need enabling them to thrive.”

Paul Deneen chairman of the school governors said: “The report acknowledges the outstanding work being undertaken by the school to do their very best for each and every pupil.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank headteacher Ms George, for her inspirational leadership, and to Emma Hanham, the deputy head, who has provided unwavering support.

“All staff demonstrate the highest level of dedication, commitment and professionalism. Pupils are very positive about the school and have absolute confidence in the adults around them. 

“They are the school’s greatest ambassadors.  I would also like to thank the governors for their rigorous challenge and support, ensuring that leadership at all levels is highly successful.”

The school team were delighted that inspectors recognised that the school’s mission statement, ‘Every Child, Every Opportunity, Every Day’ really matches what is seen on a daily basis.

Mr Morgan concluded: “Not a moment that can be spent learning and developing is wasted at Walford Nursery and Primary School.”