THE headteacher of St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Barnoldswick says she is delighted and very proud of her school after it was rated 'good' in all areas by Ofsted.

The school, in West Close Road, also marked 'good' at its last inspection in 2017, received a good rating for its quality of education, pupils' behaviour and attitudes and their personal development, the school's leadership and management, and its early years provision.

Following a two day visit in February, Ofsted inspectors made many positive comments including how pupils work hard to meet the expectations of leaders and staff, in both academic achievement and personal development; and how they benefit from positive relationships with staff, who have constructed a curriculum that is 'ambitious for all pupils’.

In its report, Ofsted says the school's 122 pupils benefit from a range of opportunities to contribute to their school and the local community.

"Staff have high expectations of pupils’ behaviour. Leaders ensure that pupils with leadership responsibilities contribute to setting and modelling these expectations. Pupils regularly display good manners. They do their best to treat others in the same way that they would like to be treated themselves.

"Older pupils regularly support their younger peers in key stage one with learning to read. Members of the school council, and other groups of pupils, are proactive in organising fundraising events for local charities, including food banks.

"These opportunities build pupils’ confidence and their understanding of the important role that they can play in society."

In order to do better, Ofsted says in some areas, teachers need to make sure work in year one should not repeat what has already been taught in reception class.

Natalie Wood, headteacher, said: "I am delighted that the inspectors recognised that St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School is a good school where children feel happy and are confident that staff will listen to their worries.

"The staff are very dedicated and work diligently to ensure all pupils are safe and are challenged. I am very proud to be the headteacher and to be supported by my staff and governing body to provide an ambitious curriculum and ensure our children reach their potential.

"We want the pupils to build their confidence and develop their understanding so that they can play a role in society in the future."

She added: "St Joseph’s school has supportive families and strong links with the local community and St Joseph’s Catholic Church. Our children are delightful and eager to learn. This makes our job of teaching, our vocation, one that is both enjoyable and very rewarding."