A Hambleton village school has been praised by inspectors for its family feel.
Kirkby Fleetham Church of England Primary School has once again been rated ‘good’ by Ofsted.
The education watchdog praised the school following a one-day inspection in February.
The inspectors concluded that the school was “at the heart of the village” and that the “family feel” ensures that pupils “feel safe and secure”.
They also found that the school, which is part of the Dales Academies Trust, has a strong Christian ethos, where “pupils are taught to respect each other and to be kind”.
Above all, pupils are “really interested in their learning…so they always behave well”.
Damian Chubb, CEO of the Dales Academies Trust, said: “Kirkby Fleetham is not the biggest of schools, but that doesn’t mean that our aspirations for our pupils should be any less high.
“What was incredibly pleasing is that the Inspectors noted that the school benefitted from their partnership work with three other schools within the Trust, the others being Barton, East Cowton and Ravensworth.
“The sharing of staff, ideas and best practice helps this school to really thrive – and ensures that pupils do not miss out on opportunities.”
The inspectors said: “When year groups are tiny, leaders group pupils from their different schools together to make one netball or football team. The combined teams practise together, learning the skills they need to play well together when passing or defending. As a result, the 2021 football team was victorious, winning the local small schools’ competition last year.”
Helen Dudman, headteacher, said: “I am incredibly proud of the staff and pupils at our small school.
“I am delighted that Ofsted have recognised how happy the children are and the fact that we are a genuine close knit our family.”
“This spirit does not, however, come without hard work and effort.
“I would like to thank all our community for everything they do to support our school. It is a real team effort.”
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