ONE of the area's smallest schools has wowed Ofsted inspectors, who gave it a string of top grades in a recent report.
Ilam primary school, which has 60 pupils, was inspected in July and inspectors have now published a report that outlines quality of care and personal development as its main strengths.
New starters at Ilam were picked out in the report as being among the best catered-for in the area, with the school’s foundation stage awarded outstanding grades in every category.
Inspector Marion Thompson said: “Children settle very quickly because of excellent induction procedures, which are highly sensitive to the needs of children and their parents.
“Trusting relationships with others are formed very quickly, including with Year One pupils in the class and with adults, because of the excellent quality of care provided.
“This also contributes to children’s outstanding personal development and learning.” Behaviour was also high on the list of top attributes and inspectors were pleased with the standards pupils achieved, along with the provision of extra-curricular activities.
Mrs Thompson said: “Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is outstanding and pupils take great care of each other. Behaviour is excellent and pupils act extremely responsibly and safely.
“Through links with other schools, they begin to develop a very clear understanding of the diverse faiths and cultures in England and further afield, for example through a school visit in France and links with a school in Nepal.” The report suggested the school could improve writing standards submitted by pupils by concentrating on marking work and giving feedback in class, and pace of learning was also earmarked for tweaks.
Head teacher Les Biddulph said staff at the school were thrilled with the report.
He said: “We are delighted with the conclusions of the report and the recognition of all the hard work and support put in by our staff, parents and governors.
“It is a great credit that our small village school is noted to have such a lively curriculum and to make a very good contribution to the local, national and international community.
“The Foundation Stage was praised highly for its excellent programme of activities, covering all areas of learning. Very skilful teaching enables children to achieve levels well above average by the end of their reception year, providing an outstanding start to key stage one.”