Pupils, staff and governors at Long Marton Primary School, near Appleby, were delighted with the result of their recent Ofsted inspection which took place less than two weeks from the end of the busy summer term.
Inspectors reported that “Long Marton continues to be a good school” where “pupils thrive in this happy, rural school” and “arrive each morning ready and eager to learn.”
Particularly pleasing to staff was the observation that, “Pupils know that staff care about them. They feel valued and safe in the school’s nurturing environment”.
Commenting on the warm family feel of the school, they noted, “Older pupils help children in the early years to settle into school life. Children in the early years flourish as they play and explore alongside their friends”.
Having worked hard to build links with parents and boost children’s self-confidence, it was observed that, “The school works closely with families. Pupils demonstrate positive attitudes to learning and conduct themselves well around school”.
The extra-curricular opportunities were particularly praised, from a wide variety of sporting events hosted and attended to regular visits for each class to cultural sites outside the county, leading to awards such as the Gold Arts Mark and Gold Sports Games Mark.
The school has invested in its library and reading programmes and it was noted: “A love of reading is fostered throughout the school.
Pupils talked enthusiastically about their favourite authors and they readily recommend books to their friends.” In addition, each child is given the opportunity to perform both on stage and on the sports field.
Headteacher Nicola Bardgett said: “We are delighted that the inspectors agreed with us that Long Marton is a good school.
“We are proud that families choose to send their children to us and that the hard work of the whole community, including staff, children, parents and governors has been recognised.
“As always, there are areas to work on and develop but we are pleased that these were ones we had identified ourselves and begun this process.”
