Blackfordby St Margaret's Church of England Primary School has welcomed the findings of its recent Ofsted inspection, which recognised significant recent improvements across the school.

Under Ofsted's renewed inspection framework, schools receive separate evaluations across a range of areas rather than a single overall grade.

The inspection confirmed that safeguarding standards are met and that curriculum and teaching, early years, leadership and governance, and personal development and wellbeing all meet the Expected Standard.

Inspectors recognised the considerable progress made by recently appointed leaders. The report highlighted that leaders "have brought about significant improvements" and have a "clear and determined vision for the school".

Ofsted praised the school's "strong family feel", noting that pupils are happy, behave positively and enjoy warm, respectful relationships with staff.

Inspectors found that behaviour in classrooms and around the school is typically positive and that bullying is exceptionally rare.

The report also recognised that teaching has improved considerably and that current pupils are achieving more positively.

Early years provision was commended for giving children a positive start to school through a carefully organised curriculum and effective support for communication and language development.

Alison Benson, Headteacher, said: "We are pleased that the inspection recognised both the positive culture within our school and the significant improvements that have been made in a relatively short period of time.

"Our staff have worked incredibly hard to strengthen teaching, support pupils' wellbeing and build a clear vision for the future."

Jo Westaby, Co-CEO (Education) of Rise Multi Academy Trust, said: "We are encouraged by the recognition given to the school's improving provision, strengthened leadership and positive learning environment.

"The report confirms that important improvements are already having an impact, while also identifying clear next steps that leaders are actively addressing."

Inspectors identified several areas where further improvement is needed, including raising attendance, improving outcomes in mathematics and for disadvantaged pupils, and strengthening the precision of support plans for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.

The report acknowledges that leaders have already begun addressing these priorities and that recent changes are beginning to show positive impact.

The full report is available on the Ofsted website or by clicking here.

For more information about Blackfordby St Margaret's Church of England Primary School, click here.