NEWSOME Junior School is one of the best in the country, and that’s official.

The school has been named as “outstanding” in all areas following an inspection by education officials from Ofsted.

Pupils, parents and staff had a week to remember last month when the worst snow in 20 years arrived at the same time as the inspection team.

And although the snow made outdoor playtimes impossible every other part of school life was at its best.

Inspectors said pupils, parents and staff should be rightly proud of the “caring, happy and harmonious school”.

The glowing report acknowledged the quality of all aspects of the school’s ethos, organisation and outcomes for pupils and recommended no areas for improvement.

Inspector John Young said: “Pupils benefit from a holistic approach to their education that superbly equips them for the next stage of their lives beyond the school.

“They mature exceptionally well academically, socially and emotionally in the nurturing environment that staff create.”

Headteacher Mrs Jean Farmer said the school’s success had been achieved through the hard work and effort of pupils and staff and by the tremendous support provided by the families of pupils at the school.

She said school events were very well attended, parents ensured homework was completed and returned, attendance and punctuality was excellent and the school’s behaviour management strategies were respected and supported by the majority of parents and carers.

Pupils expected to work hard and behave well every day when they came to school and they knew that their success depended upon their own efforts as well as that of their parents and teachers.

The excellent work at Berry Brow Infant and Nursery School was also acknowledged as part of their success.

Pupils gained valuable academic and personal skills that could be built upon when they transfer to the Junior School. Newsome Junior School then worked hard to prepare its year six pupils for their move to Newsome High School.

She said the outstanding report reflected the high quality of education available to all families living in the Newsome area.