PUPILS and parents at Preston Candover Primary School, near Alresford, are celebrating being judged as ‘Outstanding’ in their recent Statutury Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) report.

The inspection examined how well the school meets the needs of each child, how whole school worship makes an impact on the school community and how effective the leadership and management is at the school.

The report recognises the progress the school has made since its last SIAMS inspection when it was rated ‘Good’ five years ago.

Headteacher Simrit Otway is delighted the school has been recognised for its excellence. “We are a unique and inclusive Church of England School and are proud to serve our community which includes those belonging to other faiths or no faith.

“Our values are embedded into everything we do and our high expectations, distinctive ethos and pastoral care are central to our success. We want our children to thrive and make a difference to each other and our world. The inspection report is a credit to everyone involved in our wonderful school community.”

The inspection report identified that feeling part of the school was frequently expressed by pupils, staff, parents and governors. The behaviour of pupils in lessons and around the school is of the highest standard and pupils display a strong sense of compassion and social justice.

A rich purposeful curriculum and opportunities for pupils to consider aspects of the world and other cultures develops pupils’ understanding.

The report also said that pupils describe how they are helped to feel confident to express their ideas and are taught to respect the thoughts and beliefs of others.

The inspector was impressed by the leadership.

The report stated that the school is "extremely well led by a headteacher who is focssed and organised" and that "staff and parents comment on her being the driving force behind the school’s Christian ethos and of her encouragement for every pupil and adult to be the best they can be".

The report also found that the governors are "well led, enthusiastic and hardworking".