A PRIMARY school has been awarded a good Ofsted rating with inspectors praising the cohension and friendliness of the youngsters.

St Andrew’s Church of England Primary School in Marks Tey was given the good rating, following positive observations from the inspectors who praised the school in a number of areas.

They noted the safety of the school, observing the school's ethos of "Be safe, be kind and be responsible" guides pupils in both their learning and play.

The report also stated older pupils are keen on assisting their younger peers, promoting friendship and cohesion between year groups.

On the pupils' safety, the report said: “Pupils at St Andrew’s Church of England Primary School feel safe.

"They know how to stay safe when online and offline. Pupils say that bullying rarely happens. If it does, adults are quick to help.”

On the quality of the teaching, the inspectors observed: “Teachers teach the curriculum well.

"They have secure subject knowledge and use this to present information clearly.

“For example, they help pupils in Key Stage 1 to understand how to use evidence to find out about historical periods of time and events.”

Inspectors also gave plaudits for the school placing importance on reading, stating: “Leaders ensure reading has a high profile in the school. Children learn phonics from the start of Reception.

“Children enjoy reading a wide range of books. This is guided by their reading passports. Reading regularly is celebrated across the school and this encourages pupils to read more frequently.”

The report noted that some areas require improvement, stating: “While leaders have identified the essential knowledge and skills they intend pupils to learn in each subject area, plans in some subjects do not yet provide enough clarity about how learning is broken down and sequenced from early years to Year 6.”

On the report, headteacher Sam Wilding said: “It is so great to have the Ofsted inspectors to recognise the hard work of our staff and pupils put in each day.

“We have been working really hard in all areas, post-Covid, and it is great to have it recognised.”