A Penrith church school has won praise from a special inspector and has been given an excellent rating.
In November, Beaconside Church of England Primary School underwent a Siams inspection – the Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools.
The process examines the school’s Christian vision, leadership and effectiveness. A glowing report by inspector Joanne Warner has now been published.
It declared the 472-pupil Hutton Hill school as a “very special place” with a “deeply loving school family” and providing an “excellent education”.
“Leaders and staff walk the walk of the Christian vision on a day-to-day basis,” the inspector found.
“This permeates the whole school community and beyond, bringing hope, aspiration and joy to all. They see every child and every adult as children of God, and they create an environment where those of all faiths and none are cherished and loved. Everyone recognises and values worship as the heartbeat of the school.”
Its bespoke curriculum was described as innovative, bold, and well-rounded along with child-centred, challenging, inclusive, and inspirational.
Religious education was led by a passionate and knowledgeable subject leader. Pupils learn to live and learn to shine and were called a credit to the school, while Darren Glynn, the head of school, and headteacher Nick Page, were called inspiring with staff praised for working tirelessly, particularly during the pandemic, and its pastoral team was hailed as transformational.
Parents and carers too told the inspector of the compassion and love staff showed for children, and regarded it as the light on the hill. Governors were also praised for active engagement with the diocese.
“The school’s vision ensures Beaconside is a welcoming and inclusive school which meets the needs of the children it serves. Pupils are a credit to the school. They are thoughtful, kind and supportive of each other showing real friendship,” the inspector said.
Nick Page, executive headteacher at the school, said: “We are delighted with the inspection report. Not simply the excellent outcome, but because we feel it fully reflects the exceptional work of our team at Beaconside and our continued desire to provide the very best care and education for all children.
“It is wonderful that so many strengths of our school were recognised and that these are a result of the passion and commitment shown by all our staff and governors and the fantastic support we receive from our families.”
Judith Marker, chairman of governors, said: “This excellent result is testament to the hard-working, thoughtful and caring staff of the school who, by upholding our vision and values, have created an environment where our children are given the potential to flourish both academically and spiritually. Staff and children alike fully deserve this recognition.”
