Staff at a Northumberland school have shared their delight and pride after it retained its GOOD rating at a recent Ofsted inspection.

Slaley First School, Hexham, were visited by inspectors in February this year, before receiving their Good rating in May. 

The school's last full inspection, in 2015, also found it to be good. 

The report from Ofsted writes: "This is a small school where staff know the pupils well and everyone feels valued. Pupils enjoy being part of such a close and caring community. Staff and pupils abide by the school’s values. All have a positive approach to work.

"Most pupils demonstrate kindness and respect towards staff and each other. Pupils benefit from a wide variety of opportunities to be active and responsible citizens.

"Pupils are safe, happy and cared for well. Leaders have the highest of aspirations for their pupils. This includes children in early years and pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Staff lay on many activities to promote pupils’ personal development.

"Pupils have the opportunity to take part in activities such as mindfulness, yoga, piano tuition and tennis. Older pupils take on a wide range of leadership roles with diligence and pride. These include working as reading ambassadors, lunchtime support for younger pupils, pupil council members and playground buddies.

"The school supports pupils and their families well. Pupils are very well prepared for their next stage in education. The school is held in high regard by parents and carers.

"Leaders and staff have developed an engaging curriculum that is ambitious for all pupils, including those with SEND. In each subject, pupils are introduced to new learning in small, logical steps so that pupils build their knowledge progressively from early years to the end of Year 4.

"Teachers use their strong subject knowledge to teach subjects with confidence. Leaders and staff provide pupils with helpful guidance and advice. Staff use assessment well to rapidly resolve any misconceptions and to shape and adapt future teaching."

Staff from the school plan to toast the rating alongside parents at a celebration on June 7.