A HANHAM school has become the first in the South West to receive an Exceptional rating under new Ofsted judgements.
The education watchdog changed its system last November, giving grades for a range of areas rather than one overall rating.
Very few schools score Exceptional; Strong is hard to achieve and Expected standard is higher than the former Good grade.
Samuel White’s Infant School in Hanham was judged as Exceptional for its early years provision for children in nursery and reception classes and Strong for all other provision.
The inspectors who visited in May said: “The early years provision is extremely nurturing, ambitious and inclusive. Children receive an exceptional start to school life and achieve impressively well.
“Expert teaching ensures that children secure the personal, social, emotional and academic developmental steps needed at each stage.”
Samuel White’s, which is part of the Hanham Federation and The Leaf Trust, was rated Strong for achievement, curriculum and teaching, inclusion, attendance and behaviour, leadership and governance and pupils’ personal development and wellbeing. Safeguarding standards were also met.
Ofsted said: “From the moment pupils arrive at Samuel White’s, staff provide a warm welcome and ensure that school is a positive, rewarding experience. Staff leave no stone unturned to ensure that pupils feel safe, happy and ready to learn. Pupils thrive because staff are relentless in their efforts to provide the very best for them.”
The inspectors noted that parents appreciated the caring and passionate staff, the nurturing environment and the high standards.
They said children were extremely proud of their school, achieved well in national tests, and had excellent behaviour.
“Governors, trustees and school and trust leaders share a clear vision and determination for this school to provide an exceptional early education for its pupils, within the wider context of being federated with the junior school next door. Pupils are at the heart of this vision and of the decisions taken by leaders at every level,” the report said.
Head teacher Gabby Howells said: “We are delighted with the Ofsted outcome. The pupils at Samuel White’s Infant School were exemplary — showing the independence, responsibility and joy in learning that underpin everything we do. It is a daily privilege to watch them grow into rounded, confident learners and I’m proud that our visitors saw this for themselves.
“This success reflects not only our pupils but the unwavering commitment of our staff and the support of our local community, whose partnership makes such high standards possible.”
Ross Newman, CEO of The Leaf Trust, said: “I could not be prouder of everyone connected with Samuel White’s Infant School. This report reflects a school where children truly belong, grow and succeed. It reflects the dedication of staff, the support of families, the leadership of governors and school leaders, and most importantly the wonderful children who make Samuel White’s such an exceptional school.”