PUPILS and staff at Derry Hill Primary School have celebrated a fantastic Ofsted report with a big party.

The Church of England school has just received the results of an inspection carried out in June in which it achieved an outstanding rating, and last week invited parents and children to an afternoon of fun and games on the school field.

There was a magic show, swing boats, bouncy castle, ball pool, face-painting and a chance to create ice-cream sundaes.

Headteacher Sheryl Staton said she was delighted by the school’s achievement.

She said: “I am so proud of everyone involved with the school – pupils, staff, parents and governors – for the hard work, care and commitment they give every day. “This was seen by the Ofsted inspection team in June and resulted in an outstanding judgement for our school. The staff and governors of Derry Hill wanted to arrange a fun event for the pupils and parents to show how much they are valued and to share the success of this achievement.”

Ofsted lead inspector Justina Ilochi praised the school highly in her report, saying: “This is an outstanding school where pupils achieve exceptionally well.

“The school’s caring ethos lies at the heart of a stimulating curriculum. Pupils feel very safe and their outstanding behaviour, relationships and attitudes to school underpin their great willingness to learn.”

Richard French, the chair of governors, said the school would continue to improve.

He said: “We are delighted to be celebrating the outcome of the Ofsted inspection, but are already looking forward to exciting future plans for our school, including modernisation and extension of our reception area.

“The outstanding award from Ofsted endorses and recognises the achievement of the whole school community and is a great incentive to continue and do better in the future.”

See www.derryhillschool.co.uk