A school has been praised for helping pupils to “shine bright and reach for the stars.”
Tilstock CE Primary School and Nursery received glowing feedback in its first inspection under Ofsted’s new School Report Card framework.
Inspectors commended the school’s student wellbeing, broad curriculum, inclusive culture, and commitment to helping every child succeed.
Ofsted described pupils as “happy and proud to be part of this welcoming school community.”
Rowena Kaminski, executive headteacher, said: “We are delighted that the Ofsted inspection recognised Personal Development and Wellbeing as a Strong Standard and acknowledged that children achieve well from their starting points.
“For me, achievement is about far more than academic outcomes alone.
“My ethos has always been that children need strong foundations in personal development; they should feel nurtured, cared for, valued and experience a genuine sense of belonging.
“When children feel safe, confident and supported, they are able to flourish both personally and academically.”
The report also highlighted the school’s “comprehensive and thoughtfully sequenced personal development programme,” which gives children the confidence, character, and understanding needed for life beyond primary school.
Ofsted found that children learn about respect, equality, and diversity, and show “kindness, empathy, and tolerance towards others.”
The provision for early years was singled out as a strength, with inspectors noting the “calm, nurturing environment” that helps children settle quickly and develop independence.
Inspectors also praised the school’s leadership.
Dave Perrett, chair of governors, said: “Governors are proud of the dedication of our staff, children and wider school community.
“We are delighted that Ofsted recognised the school’s strengths in personal development, inclusion, safeguarding and leadership.
“We look forward to continuing to build on this strong foundation.”
Parents have shared “very positive views” about the care and support their children receive.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as disadvantaged and vulnerable children, were found to achieve well and access the full curriculum in an inclusive environment.
The school was also commended for offering a “broad and ambitious curriculum” and improved results in the Year 4 Multiplication Tables Check, now above the national average.
Sarah Finch, CEO of The Marches Academy Trust, said: “We are extremely proud of everyone in the Tilstock community, and the positive outcome achieved through its first inspection under the new Ofsted framework.
“The report reflects the school’s commitment to inclusion, wellbeing and high aspirations for all children.
“It is particularly pleasing to see recognition of the strong relationships, nurturing environment and culture of Achievement Through Caring that underpin life at Tilstock.”
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