A Dorset primary school has received a glowing report following a recent inspection.

St Andrew’s Primary School has been described as a ‘welcoming and nurturing church school’ in a recent inspection by the Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS).

Inspectors explore the ways in which each school’s theologically rooted Christian vision drives its work and enables the school to live up to its foundation as a church school.

Inspectors concluded that the school in Fontmell Magna is a ‘welcoming and nurturing church school’ and that its ‘empowering Christian vision inspires and strengthens the whole school community.’

Executive Headteacher Debbie Brown said: “We are very pleased with the outcome, incredibly proud of the team here and are delighted that our hard work over the last couple of years has been externally recognised.

“We know our wonderful Fontmell community will join with us in celebrating a genuinely successful outcome for them and their children. My greatest pleasure is seeing that we have been recognised for enabling our children to truly flourish in all the ways they deserve to.”

The school’s governors were also praised for their support and experience, and SAST – the multi-academy trust that the school is part of – was also highlighted as providing high quality support.

SAST CEO Brian Hooper said: “This glowing report recognises the wonderful school environment that Debbie and her team have created at St Andrew’s.

“The school has been on a journey of rapid improvement over the last few years, and to receive a report as positive as this shows how far they have come, and why they are now the school of choice for local children.”

The report described a ‘transformational vision coupled with effective leadership has resulted in a community who believe all things are possible’ and ‘the whole school flourishes spiritually.’

It went on to say that ‘leaders actively create a school culture of inclusion and equity and that ‘pupils and adults are valued for who they are, the generous and encouraging ethos provides all with a voice, enabling them to grow and believe in themselves.’