A Blackpool primary school has been awarded Ofsted's highest possible grade after inspectors praised its ambitious curriculum, outstanding early years provision and strong community values.
Kincraig Primary School in Bispham was graded "Exceptional" following an inspection on July 14 and 15, 2026.
The report found safeguarding standards were met and highlighted exceptional early years provision, with all other areas judged to be at a strong standard.
Inspectors said children receive "the very best start" in the early years, where communication and language development are prioritised through high-quality teaching, inspiring learning environments and carefully planned interactions.
They found children leave Reception "impressively well prepared" for future success.
The report also praised pupils' academic performance, noting that attainment in reading, writing and mathematics at the end of Year 6 remains consistently above national averages.
Disadvantaged pupils were found to outperform the national average for non-disadvantaged pupils, while pupils with special educational needs and disabilities achieve well across the curriculum.
Inspectors described behaviour at the school as exemplary and said leaders had created a culture of high expectations where pupils learn free from disruption.
Bullying was described as extremely rare and dealt with swiftly when concerns arise.
Attendance was also highlighted as a strength, with leaders praised for working closely with families and external agencies to tackle barriers and reduce persistent absence.
The report noted that leaders place pupils "at the heart of everything they do" and have developed a culture of ambition and excellence that extends across the school community.
Governance was also singled out as a strength, with governors providing rigorous challenge and support.
Inspectors also commended the school's wider personal development programme, which includes first-aid training, visits to places of worship, careers activities, musical opportunities and community projects with nursing homes and children's hospices.
Pupils told inspectors they view the school as their "safe space" and enjoy learning in its "vibrant and inspiring" classrooms.
They were described as respectful, kind and proud of their school.
The only recommendation for improvement was that leaders continue to help more pupils achieve the higher standards in reading, writing and mathematics by deepening and embedding knowledge and skills across the curriculum.
The school, led by headteacher Karen Smith, has 240 pupils on roll.
Around 46 per cent of pupils are eligible for free school meals, significantly above the national average.
According to the report, pupils benefit from a broad range of opportunities, including learning musical instruments, performing at the Winter Gardens and working with Blackpool Football Club on transition projects ahead of secondary school.
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