A primary school where children are “eager to learn each day” has retained its ‘good’ Ofsted rating following an inspection earlier this year.

Marsden Community Primary School in Nelson was last inspected in January 2018, when a short inspection found it to be rated ‘good’. The same outcome was found at its last full inspection in October 2013.

The school, located in Percy Street, has retained those ratings this time around after being inspected in March.

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The report said: “Pupils arrive at school happy and eager to learn each day. They understand fully the importance of trying their best. Pupils are keen to get things right and learn even more. From the early years, staff quickly build strong relationships with pupils, parents, and carers.

“Leaders have high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Pupils do their utmost to live up to these expectations and work hard in their lessons. Pupils behave well during lessons and at social times.

“Pupils said that bullying is rare and when it has happened in the past, the staff have sorted any problems out quickly. Leaders’ systems ensure that any issues are dealt with sensitively and effectively. This helps pupils to feel safe in school.”

The report noted the ambitious curriculum designed by leaders at the school, which meets the need of the pupils, including those with SEND.

It said there are effective systems in place to identify the additional needs of pupils with SEND at the earliest possible stage.

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It is ensured that reading is a high priority for all staff. Older pupils talk about their favourite books and authors and are keen to explain the importance of reading widely.

There is respect shown towards teaching staff and pupils generally only need gentle reminders to focus on their learning.

Despite being rated good, the report suggested some pupils do not attend school as regularly as they should, which has a negative impact on their progress through the curriculum, and staff should continue to improve these pupils’ attendance.