A Clitheroe primary has seen its rating slip from ‘outstanding’ to ‘good’ following an inspection by Ofsted.

Clitheroe Pendle Primary School, in Princess Avenue, was inspected in July, having been handed an outstanding rating 11 years ago.

The report described how 'the quality of education, 'behaviour and attitudes', 'personal development' and 'leadership and management' were all rated 'Good'.

Inspectors said: “Pupils are happy to attend Clitheroe Pendle Primary School, and the school is ambitious for pupils to achieve well.

“Most pupils behave well in lessons and at playtimes. They delight in the array of rewards that they receive for behaving well and working hard.

“Pupils enjoy a wide range of opportunities and experiences that enrich the curriculum which include donating food to the local food bank and raising funds for charities.

“Pupils also benefit from educational trips and visits, such as visits to castles, places of worship and a local quarry. These experiences contribute strongly to their broader development.”

To improve, the report recommended the nursery should “refine its curriculum and give sufficient thought to the essential knowledge that pupils must acquire.”

They were highly commended for their support in children's reading and their investment in high-quality and engaging books from their well-stocked library.

The report continued: “The school fosters a love of reading. Most staff have received training so that they implement the early reading programme effectively.

“Most pupils read from books that match their current phonics knowledge. This helps them to develop into confident readers.”

Clitheroe and Pendle Primary also were praised for their ability to identify students with special educational needs, and a programme to support their wider development is well considered.

Staff also dedicate time to teaching pupils about healthy relationships and how to keep safe, learning about other faiths and cultures and understanding the importance of treating everyone fairly and with respect.

Opening in 2004 the school has recently been awarded the Lancashire Behaviour Mark which acknowledges and celebrates the high standards of children’s behaviour, school policies and practices.

The arrangements for safeguarding were seen to be effective.