A north Cumbrian primary school has been praised by the education watchdog.
Ofsted inspectors visited Longtown Primary School, part of Cumbria Education Trust since 2016, in March.
Rated as good in 2019, inspectors undertook this ungraded inspection to determine whether the school had taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at the previous visit.
Although the primary school’s rating remains as good, inspectors said: “Evidence gathered during this inspection suggests that the school’s work may have improved significantly.
Inspectors said: “Pupils delight in attending this happy and vibrant school. Relationships between staff and pupils are very strong and nurturing. Pupils are proud of their harmonious school.
“The environment is welcoming to all. Staff develop pupils’ individual talents well. The school is highly ambitious for pupils to succeed, including disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Pupils rise to these expectations and are keen learners.”
They added that pupils behaved well and the school, on Mary Street, had an ambitious curriculum that met the needs of pupils well.
The Ofsted report added: “The curriculum is delivered skilfully by teachers who have deep subject knowledge…pupils achieve very well and are thoroughly prepared for the next stage of their learning.”
However, the report added that it was not reflected in the 2024 published outcomes.
It added: “At the end of Year 6, pupils’ attainment in reading, writing and mathematics was below the national average.
“The school’s quick actions in response to these outcomes have been successful. For example, in mathematics, current pupils build securely on their prior knowledge and can solve problems, with increasing complexity.”
Anna Carroll, headteacher, said: “Every member of staff has a tireless dedication and passion for what they do. I am so proud of our wonderful children, whose attitude and behaviour impressed inspectors throughout the two-day visit.
“This is a proud moment for our school, and I am looking forward to building on this success.”
Lorrayne Hughes, trust chief executive, added: “I am really proud of the upward trajectory Longtown has been on since joining CET. The leadership team and staff have made a significant collective impact on the school’s journey.”
