CELEBRATIONS are underway at a York village school.
Inspectors visited Sutton upon Derwent CE Primary School, which has 74 pupils, as part of a Church of England Education Office’s Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) religious inspection.
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SIAMS inspections, which happen every five years, evaluate a school’s Christian ethos, how well pupils’ needs are met through its Christian character, the impact collective worship has on a school community, the effectiveness of Religious Education and the effectiveness of leadership and management.
Pupils at Sutton upon Derwent CE School (Image: Supplied) In her report, SIAMS inspector Andrea Swift, said: "As a result of the Christian vision, the community of this happy school know how to live well and flourish together.
"Strong relationships are evident throughout school.
"Effective partnerships with the diocese and through the federation with another small Church school strengthen this outward looking school.
"Leaders, including governors, understand the context of the rural community the school serves very well and are invested in its growth.
"They strive to make sure that members of the school community can speak out with courage. The vision seeks to include everyone where adults and pupils are recognised as unique individuals made in God’s image.
"Bold decisions made by leaders, such as extending staffing to strengthen the impact of outdoor learning on pupils, are rooted in this vision. Governors are fully involved in the life of the school and thoughtfully evaluate of the impact of the vision.
"This ensures the vision has a positive impact on pupils and adults. New pupils, and their families, welcome the kindness of the school community. Parents value the way pupils care for each other and how this enriches the way joy is tangibly felt at Sutton upon Derwent."
Bracken Holtby, executive head teacher, said: "We are very proud of this report, which beams with positivity and celebrates the school community wholeheartedly.
"Our school vision drives everything we do and we are thrilled that the inspector recognised how we live here at Sutton upon Derwent.
"We constantly strive to allow our pupils and adults to flourish, where they can follow their own unique pathways in life and grow with confidence."
Chair of governors, Kirsty Scott said: "What a wonderful report. Governors are delighted the inspector could see our school vision - follow your pathway and grow with confidence - is truly lived out every day.
"We would like to celebrate all staff across the federation for their dedication and hard work which ensures pupils flourish spiritually and academically."
Class teacher, Lucy Hardcastle said: "It was a lovely opportunity to showcase what our children get to live out every day. Our school is a family. We are very proud of our school and it's wonderful that the SIAMS team could be part of the day."
Bracken Holtby playing cricket with pupils