A Stevenage school where "pupils are extremely kind and caring" is celebrating an Ofsted rating of good, with elements of outstanding.

St Margaret Clitherow RC Primary School in Stevenage has been rated good for its quality of education, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has been rated outstanding for behaviour and attitudes and personal development.

Ofsted found that pupils enjoy school and "respond well to the high expectations of staff". 

They "strive to do their best and achieve well" and "are extremely kind and caring", frequently giving up their free time to help each other, the education watchdog noted.

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Meanwhile, "lessons are free from disruption and lunchtimes are a buzz of happy and harmonious play."

In its report, Ofsted highlights how the school "is very effective in ensuring all pupils feel welcome and included".

Staff go out of their way to ensure there are no barriers to any pupil participating in clubs, with most pupils attending a wide range of clubs that extend their interests, the report says.

Ofsted also noted that "a detailed and comprehensive personal development curriculum ensures pupils are taught fundamental information, such as how to treat others and how to stay safe".

Meanwhile, "leaders, governors, staff and pupils work well together. They each contribute to making this a happy, pleasant place to learn."

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In terms of room for improvement, Ofsted found that "some aspects of the curriculum are still in the process of being updated, or at the early stages of being implemented. As a result, pupils’ knowledge in these few subjects is not yet as detailed as it should be.

"Leaders should continue to refine these aspects of the curriculum so that pupils build an in-depth knowledge of all subject areas over time. This includes ensuring that children in the early years are fully prepared for all subjects in Year 1."

Headteacher Carmela Puccio said: "The inspectors were highly impressed by the confidence and enthusiasm of our children, who proudly shared their beautiful school with genuine excitement and pride.

"Throughout the inspection, our dedicated staff showcased the very best of St. Margaret Clitherow RC Primary School.

"The calm and purposeful atmosphere was evident at every turn, reflecting the hard work and commitment of our entire school community. 

"We are incredibly proud of our children, whose confidence and love for their school shone brightly during the inspection.

"Their ability to articulate their experiences and achievements with such poise is a testament to the nurturing and supportive environment that St Margaret Clitherow RC Primary School provides.

"The positive feedback from Ofsted reaffirms our commitment to excellence and motivates us to continue striving for the very best for our children.

"We look forward to building on this success and continuing to provide an education that prepares our children for a successful future."