A WEYMOUTH school is celebrating after being classed as ‘outstanding’ following an inspection.

Beechcroft St Paul’s CE VA Primary School was given top marks after it was visited by the Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) in December last year.

The school, which currently has 217 pupils, was praised for the quality of its religious education and the collective worship which frequently takes place at the school and it’s links to St Paul’s Church were also highlighted as an integral part of the primary school.

Ppupils were also praised for their attitude and behaviour, and the governors and head teacher Sarah Sprague were also commended for their leadership of the school and the delivery of education and the links to the local community.

The report states: “The partnership between the headteacher and the parish priest creates a community that directly reflects Christian theology – the revelation of God and the concept of incarnation.

“All aspects of provision centre on the child and the creative and flexible curriculum adapts to children’s emotional and spiritual needs.

“Collective worship and religious education ensure that the children fully understand the application of the school’s key values within their Christian context.

“The reflective introduction of Rights Respecting Schools and Global Learning Programme has brought about an attitudinal change in the pupils who recognise the oneness of children globally.

“Respect for cultures and beliefs has been robustly constructed upon this recognition.

“The proactive governing body fully supports the strategies and funding necessary to take forward the school’s vibrant Christian vision and rigorously monitors this.

“One child expressed clearly the spirit of Beechcroft: ‘We are one big family – the love that we share. Our tree represents our family tree and we are each a leaf. We are a community and together we make it fantastic.’”

The school was last inspected in 2009 when it was also judged to be outstanding and headteacher Sarah Sprague said: “The inspector commented on the fact that the school has woven together the provision on offer so coherently that children’s attitudes, responses and behaviour live out the school’s mission statement.”

Julia Moore, chairman of the governors, said: “The governors are thrilled that this report acknowledges the outstanding and distinctive Christian character of our school and the inspiring work of Sarah Sprague and the Beechcroft St Paul’s team to ensure the very best for each child in their learning, spiritual growth and wellbeing.”

Father Richard Harper, the parish priest, added: “This is an outstanding team and what has been accomplished is recognised in this excellent report. “The school always puts pupils first.”