A small school in a rural Ribble Valley village has remained good following a recent ungraded visit by Ofsted.

Inspectors praised the school for its “warm and welcoming atmosphere” and its ambitious targets for children’s academic achievement during the inspection in May.

It was the first time Ofsted had visited Simonstone St Peter’s CE Primary School in five years, and brought up 13 consecutive years rated as good by Ofsted.

In their report, inspectors said: “The school has a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

“Leaders and staff want the best for pupils, and their expectations of pupils’ behaviour and learning are high.

“Pupils rise to these high expectations. Their behaviour is very positive. Pupils feel safe and are happy in school, and they achieve well across the curriculum.”

The report noted teachers have strong subject knowledge and regularly check children’s progress to address any gaps in learning, and ensure knowledge is logically structured throughout school to help children achieve well.

They praised the school’s focus on reading, with phonics taught immediately in Reception classes and teachers ensuring those pupils who struggle are spotted quickly and given effective support.

Inspectors noted clear routines are set up for children to follow, who share well and are kind to each other, getting on well in class and around school.

Another area of praise was the school’s support for pupils physical and mental health, with age-appropriate teaching in PSHE classes and a culture of respect and tolerance to others encouraged.

The school’s governors were also praised for being “committed, passionate, and holding leaders effectively to account for the quality of education”, while safeguarding procedures were also noted to be effective.

The one area headteacher Jillian Cockings was told the school needs to improve was in ensuring the curriculum is finalised for Key Stage 2 pupils.

Inspectors said: “Leaders have not yet finalised the curriculum in a small number of foundation subjects at KS2.

“They have not defined all of the essential subject knowledge that pupils need to learn. This is hindering some pupils from learning as well as they should.

“Leaders should identify the important knowledge and skills that KS2 pupils should learn in these subjects.”