Pupils and staff at Symondsbury are celebrating their great marks after a school inspection.

The school was judged ‘good’ overall by inspectors after a Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS).

They were also judged ‘outstanding’ at meeting the needs of all learners.

The principal objective of the inspection is to evaluate the distinctiveness and effectiveness of a school as a church school.

Head teacher Emma Roberts said: “The school is very pleased with the outcome of the SIAMS inspection.

“The inspector was very thorough and positive, acknowledging the strong link that we have with the church.

“This is a fantastic result which reflects the hard work and commitment of everyone in creating a distinctive school ethos built on strong Christian values. We are very proud.’’ Mrs Roberts was praised even though she had only been head for six weeks.

Inspector Marcia Headon said: “In the six weeks the head teacher has been in post she has made a considerable impact and the school is now on a rapid journey from an already strong position.

“She has high expectation for the school and has introduced new ideas and opportunities to the staff, openly and with sensitivity.”

Particular strengths were identified as the strength of the school’s partnership with the church, the drive and spiritual leadership of the head teacher, the commitment of the staff to the learning and well-being of all pupils and the strong, caring and nurturing atmosphere of the school.

Inspectors found that the attainment of pupils leaving in Year 6 is consistently well above the national average, with all groups of pupils making good progress.

They reported that attendance is high and behaviour ‘excellent’, with children given many opportunities to extend their cultural awareness through activities such as music and art.

The school also praised the wide range of activities linked to charities which it said helps the children ‘appreciate their duty to help others less fortunate.’ Areas pointed out for improvement included ensuring pupils were given the opportunity to reflect on how topics in the curriculum could influence their lives, increasing the rigour of assessment in religious education and enhancing the centrality of prayer in the life of the school.

Symondsbury Primary School, which has 104 pupils, is currently gearing up for Christmas activities, including the nativity play and carol service at Symondsbury church.