A “warm and welcoming” Rossendale primary school has retained its ‘good’ rating following its latest Ofsted inspection.

St Anne’s Church of England Primary School in Ashworth Road, Waterfoot, was inspected over two days on May 11 and 12 and retained the rating it also received in May 2018.

The school was particularly praised for its values and the high expectations teachers hold for the pupils, which are responded to well.

READ MORE: Clayton-le-Moors nursery ranked in top 20 in North West

The report said: “St Anne’s is a warm and welcoming school. The school’s values of respect, thankfulness, hope, forgiveness, love, and faithfulness, contribute to the friendly atmosphere. Pupils relish the friendships they make in school.

“Pupils respond well to the high expectations that leaders have of their behaviour. Pupils learn about, and respect, differences between people. They are kind and courteous. Rare incidents of bullying are dealt with effectively by leaders. As a result, pupils feel safe and happy at school.

“Leaders have high aspirations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Children in the early years thrive. For example, teachers encourage children to be independent and to cooperate with their peers. This helps children to achieve well.

“Leaders offer a range of activities that help to nurture pupils’ talents. For instance, pupils have enjoyed signing at the ‘Young Voices’ performance in Manchester. Pupils benefit from the sports competitions and events organised by leaders. This includes taking part in the swimming gala and competing in dance competitions.”

The revised curriculum is ambitious for all pupils from the nursery through to year 6 and has been designed to build on learning logically over time.

However, a small number of subject curriculums are not finalised, meaning pupils do not build on their knowledge as effectively as they could.

Reading is also said to be a high priority at the school, with pupils having a desire to read and they enjoy celebrating their reading achievements.

READ MORE: Marsden Community Primary School in Nelson retains 'good' rating

To improve on their ‘good’ rating, the curriculum design needs to be completed in a small number of subjects, and the books pupils read need to closer match the level of understanding they have.

The report concluded: “Pupils, including children in the early years, settle into the school routines well. Leaders are relentless in supporting pupils to attend school regularly and on tine.

“Pupils are motivated to succeed. As a result, learning is rarely disrupted.”