A Blackburn headteacher has praised staff, pupils and parents after a school received a glowing Ofsted inspection.

Wensley Fold Church of England Primary Academy, based off Manor Road was deemed ‘Outstanding’ in all categories at a recent inspection.

The inspection at the school which caters for 241 children took place on September 14 and 15 as the new school term began. This was the first routine inspection the school had received since the Covid pandemic began.

The report said: “Pupils know that their school is a very special place. Each day is filled with magical learning opportunities.

“Classrooms sparkle with books, resources and images that fire pupils’ imagination. Pupils play happily outdoors in beautiful grounds that have far-reaching views of the world around them.

"The quality of education that pupils receive is simply exceptional. Pupils experience nothing but the best from early years to Year 6.

“The school’s expectations of what pupils can achieve are extremely high. Pupils strive successfully to meet these expectations each day. Children in the Reception class know that they must listen carefully.

“Older pupils work hard and stay focused in their lessons. Pupils of all ages, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), achieve the best possible outcomes.

“Around the school, indoors and outdoors, pupils’ behaviour is impeccable. They follow the school rules conscientiously.

"For example, everyone has to walk to the left on the stairs so that there is enough room for people to pass safely. Older pupils are excellent role models for younger ones."

The school was said to ‘quickly spot and addresses any behaviour that might lead to bullying’.

The school serves a diverse community and most children who start in early years speak English as an additional language.

The report said: “Nonetheless, they quickly develop the strong language and communication skills that enable them to learn extremely well over time.

"Regardless of their different starting points, pupils in each key stage achieve consistently high outcomes in national tests.”

Lancashire Telegraph: Deputy Headteacher Mrs Whittingham with pupils at Wensley Fold CE Primary Academy

The school was said to have ‘reading is at the heart of the curriculum’

The report adds: “In every class and around the school, pupils are immersed in a world of captivating books and stories.

"They read and listen to a rich range of fiction, poetry and information books. Children in early years enjoy their story times.

“Older pupils look forward to the special time when adults read to them. Pupils said that they treasure their visits to the school’s ‘amazing’ libraries, which are designed to foster a deep and lasting love of reading.

“The school works quickly and purposefully to identify any pupils who may have SEND. There is effective communication between the school, parents and carers, and a wide range of professionals.

“This ensures that pupils with SEND receive expert support when it is needed. Pupils with SEND achieve highly.”

Headteacher Donna Simpson said: “We are delighted to share our recent OFSTED school inspection report and thrilled that 14 years after our previous outstanding rating we have once again retained our outstanding status.

“This is down to the continuing hard work, dedication and support of all staff, pupils, governors, parents and supporters of the Academy.

“Well done to everyone, it is thoroughly deserved.”