The headteacher of a primary school in Clitheroe is pleased after the school achieved a ‘good’ Ofsted rating, an improvement since the previous inspection.

St Michael and St John's Roman Catholic Primary School, in Lowergate, Clitheroe achieved the rating in all key areas after the inspection in July.

This comes after the previous inspection in October 2019 rated the school as 'requires improvement'.

The school was described by inspectors as a ‘welcoming place to be’ where pupils are friendly and respectful as well as feeling cared for and safe.

The report said: “Pupils are willing and keen to celebrate others for who they are and who they wish to be.

“Leaders, staff and governors have high expectations of pupils’ learning and behaviour. This includes those pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

“Pupils enjoy their lessons and try their best in all that they do. Pupils throughout school, including children in early years, typically achieve well.

“Pupils behave well during lessons and at social times. They are polite and respectful to each other and to adults. If bullying should occur, it is dealt with effectively.”

Inspectors noted the school has made ‘considerable improvements’ to the curriculum since the last inspection and leaders have developed and ambitious curriculum across most subjects.

Reading is prioritised across the school and inspectors saw that pupils ‘love to read’. Pupils are taught fundamental British values such as respect and democracy. They also celebrate differences and learn about different families and racial tolerance.

Following the inspection, headteacher Zoe Mabbott said: “I am so pleased that our wonderful children, supportive parents and excellent staff and governors have been recognised by Ofsted.

"We are particularly proud to be described as ‘welcoming’ and a school where all children are celebrated and celebrate others ‘for who they are and who they wish to be.’ 

“Children at SSMJ are proud, happy, feel safe and were adamant that at SSMJ, everyone is treated equally. 

“The whole SSMJ team have worked relentlessly and passionately to ensure our children remain central to our vision.

"We are a fully inclusive school focussing on the development of the whole child and we are very proud that Ofsted recognised that every child’s individual gifts and talents are continually recognised, supported and celebrated. 

“We are very proud of our excellent academic results, but also of our strong pupil leadership, sporting success, arts enrichment, charitable giving, high standards of behaviour, and our offer of a fully rounded education for all children.

"This is not something we do for inspection purposes, but because we are a family and community who support each other ‘to be the best we can be.’"

Ms Mabbott said parents and guardians can see what the school has to offer at an open morning for families with children starting school in September 2024, which takes place from 9.15am on Wednesday, October 4. 

She added: “We look forward to meeting you, introducing you to our amazing children and showing you our wonderful school in action.”