Sunderland school ‘absolutely delighted’ with latest Ofsted report

St Michael's Catholic Primary School, in Houghton-le-Spring, received a “strong standard” in achievement, attendance and behaviour, curriculum and teaching, early years and leadership and governance.

The school also recevied “expected standard” in inclusion.

The report begins: “Pupils flourish at this happy and purposeful school. They know staff set high expectations and they are determined to meet them.”

Inspectors also noted how pupils are “inquisitive”, “ask questions” and are “eager to improve their work”.

The report continues: “Pupils’ behaviour and attitudes to learning are striking. They show empathy for their peers, respect for difference and an enthusiasm for learning.

"From the early years onwards, pupils build positive relationships with adults. This helps pupils feel safe and secure at school.”

St Michael’s headteacher, Nicholas Reeson, said: “We are absolutely delighted with this report which reflects the dedication, professionalism and care shown every day by our staff.

"Most importantly, it celebrates our pupils, whose enthusiasm, kindness and determination make St Michael’s such a special place to learn.

“This outcome is the result of a genuine team effort. We are incredibly grateful to our staff, families, governors, parish community and Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust for their continued support and shared commitment to ensuring every child flourishes.”

St Michael’s Catholic Primary School has been given a couple of areas to improve in, including strengthening its provision for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities.

The report adds: “Leaders should ensure that the taught personal development curriculum enables pupils to develop secure and detailed knowledge over time and that the wider personal development offer is structured so that all pupils benefit fully from it.”

Senior director of performance and standards at Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust, Claire Brown, said: “This is a wonderful report that recognises St Michael’s as a school where ambition is matched by expertise, where children are known and nurtured as individuals and where academic excellence sits alongside genuine care for every pupil.

"We are immensely proud of Mr Reeson and the entire school community for this well- deserved recognition.”