Glowing reports on school and staff

Last updated 05:16, Friday, 21 November 2008

A WIGTON primary school is celebrating after a glowing assessment by inspectors.

Headteacher Paula Holden: Provides ‘clear direction’

St Cuthbert’s Catholic Primary School was praised for its leadership and the behaviour of its pupils in the Ofsted report following an inspection last month.

The school of 147 pupils was described as good overall with pupil behaviour attracting the highest grade of excellent.

The report said the school “provides a happy and harmonious environment where every pupil is valued highly and relationships are excellent”.

Lead Ofsted inspector Sheila Mawer praised the behaviour of the youngsters. She said: “Pupils respond well to a rich curriculum which has a positive impact on their excellent behaviour, good attitudes to learning and clear enjoyment of the school.

“They are building a good foundation for their future lives.”

The report went on to state that headteacher Paula Holden and deputy head Greg Tognarelli provided strong leadership and a clear direction for the school and that good improvements had been made since the last inspection.

Ofsted inspectors recommended more challenge for able mathematics pupils.

Ms Holden said: “The report reflects the hard work and dedication of our staff.

“We have a very dedicated team who support each other and constantly strive for the best for our pupils.

“The strong Christian ethos is central to the provision of a supportive and caring environment.

“We are delighted with the report and were particularly pleased that the children were complimented on their outstanding behaviour.

“We have already started to work on recommendations from the inspection, which we feel confident we will be able to address.”

The school was also praised for its strong links with the local community.

Chair of Governors Father Peter Hart said: “We offer sincere congratulations to the whole school community – we have a school of which we can be truly proud.”