High praise for village school

Dec 30 2008 by Hazel Ettienne, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

A VILLAGE school is celebrating after Ofsted inspectors said it was outstanding in all areas.

Shelley First School gained a grade one or outstanding rating in every area inspected under Government targets.

Inspector Terry McDermott, who visited last month, said the school, which has 207 pupils, provided high-quality care and education for its pupils.

He said the excellent leadership of the energetic and forthright head teacher, Mrs Debra Knowles, ensured pupils made the best possible progress.

Mr McDermott said the school had improved in many areas since its last inspection.

It also demonstrates an outstanding capacity to improve further.

The achievement of all pupils, including those with learning difficulties and/or disabilities, was outstanding in relation to their broadly average starting points at the beginning of reception year.

By the time pupils reach the end of Year 2 their standards were high. They remain so until the pupils leave school at the end of Year 5.

Pupils also reached very high standards in their personal development.

They took on responsibility willingly, and made informed choices about their eating, exercise and behaviour.