STAFF and children at Coates Lane Primary School in Barnoldswick, are celebrating after Ofsted ruled it continues to be a ‘good’ school.

Following a two day inspection, the school in Kirkstall Drive, which has 206 children on its roll, and has had a ‘good’ rating since at least 2006, was found to be a ‘happy school where pupils flourish and achieve well’.

Ofsted inspector, Jean Olsson-Law, said staff worked together successfully to promote the school’s aims.

“They do all they can to inspire pupils to become independent, confident learners. Staff and pupils are proud to be part of their school community,” she said in her report.

Ms Olsson-Law continued that pupils are friendly and kind towards each other, and at break-times enjoyed playing team games, exploring the school’s forest area and joining in fun fitness routines.

“Pupils say they are not aware of any bullying, and if there is appropriate behaviour, pupils are sure teachers will ‘sort out anything that goes wrong’. Pupils say they ‘love school’ and feel cared for and safe,” she said.

The inspector said leaders and governors have high expectations of staff and for pupils, and made sure the school kept on improving. Pupils of all abilities benefit from a wide-ranging and motivating curriculum, while provision for children with special educational needs or disabilities is planned well.

Mathematics is a key strength across the school, and teachers have secure subject knowledge, planning activities that are ‘thought-provoking, meaningful and fun’, she reported.

Headteacher Sarah White, who has been at the school for 13 years and its headteacher since 2013, said: “I always feel very fortunate to be able to lead such an amazing school but after a very long and thorough two days with the Ofsted inspector, I feel even prouder.

“The inspector said that in her 12 years of inspecting schools she had never been to a school where so many children and staff felt so valued and were so happy to be in school. She could see how far we had come since our last good inspection in 2015 and how the school is continually improving. It was also pleasing that she commented on how pupils of all abilities benefit from a wide ranging and motivating curriculum and that leaders make sure teaching meets all pupils’ needs.

“The school’s governors and I are over the moon that the hard work we put into making the school the best place possible for all children has been recognised. Coates Lane is a lucky place to have such wonderful staff, governors, parents, grandparents and the local community surrounding it and helping it to keep moving forward.”