A SMALL local village primary school has rave reviews from Ofsted inspectors and a grade of "good" during its first inspection since converting to academy status.

One parent at Otterhampton Primary School in Combwich praised the school to inspectors saying, “the team of staff provides a safe, nurturing and positive environment in which my child can learn and grow.”

The newly published report says that the 77 pupils at the school: “behave consistently well, both in class and at social times. This is because leaders promote an ethos of kindness.”

The inspectors found that leaders have galvanised the school community and created a culture of high expectations. They also commented that: “Leaders have placed experiences beyond the classroom at the heart of the school’s work.”

Bridgwater Mercury:

Reading is a priority at the school with a ‘high profile’ and consequently, pupils develop a love of reading.

Inspectors looked at the whole school including the Pre-school, and concluded that, ‘In early years, leaders ensure close links between the Pre-school and Reception Year to ensure that children get off to a flying start.’

The inspectors were impressed with the school: “Leaders have devised an effective personal development programme which dovetails with the academic curriculum.

"They place a particular emphasis on mental health. This can be seen through initiatives such as pupils supporting their peers at social times in the role of ‘well-being champions’.”

The popular school takes children from a wide catchment area including Bridgwater and the surrounding villages and are holding open mornings on Tuesday, January 10 and Thursday, January 12 with tours at 9:30am and 10am.   

Headteacher, Claire Luce, said: "I am thrilled to be able to share the validation of Ofsted which acknowledges the hard work of all the staff and pupils in such challenging times. Knowing that our children are flourishing and growing as individuals is truly inspiring."