Ofsted inspectors have praised pupils and teachers at St Mary’s C of E Primary School, Edwinstowe.

It has graded the school Good in all areas after an inspection, with the report saying St Mary’s children are enthusiastic learners who are motivated and achieve well. Their positive attitudes to learning were reflected in good behaviour in lessons and around school.

Parents and carers told inspectors they appreciate the strong sense of community. Many also highlighted the school’s caring and respectful culture, which they said enabled children to thrive.

Headteacher Jennie Bailey, who joined the school in the summer, said: “We are delighted to share the fantastic news that our school has received a positive Ofsted report. It is a great reflection of the nurturing, supportive, and enthusiastic learning environment our children receive daily.

“Children are at the heart of every decision we make at St Mary’s, and we are looking forward to continuing to inspire them to be the best they can be.

“We are committed to ensuring that all children at St Mary’s enjoy and cherish the time they spend with us, looking back with fond memories.”

The report highlighted the outstanding environment the school has to offer, saying: “Pupils benefit from the school’s idyllic location on the edge of Sherwood Forest. The outdoor areas have been purposefully designed to make the most of the natural environment. This aspect of the school’s provision supports pupils’ physical and mental health, and wellbeing, very well.”

Children get a strong start at St Mary’s and the Early Years provision was reported to be a key strength of the school. Reading was said to be a priority in all year groups, and children are encouraged to develop a love of reading and books.

Inspectors said the school’s curriculum was carefully designed to promote children’s development across all areas of learning. Staff worked as an effective team, skilfully prioritising children’s language skills and personal development.

The school promoted pupils’ broader personal development well through a range of popular extra-curricular and other enrichment opportunities that nurture youngsters’ talents and interests.

Pupils were also said to have a mature understanding of the importance of respect and equality and are well prepared as young citizens.

Headteacher Jennie added that children took the inspection in their stride, saying: “St Mary’s children were fantastic ambassadors during the inspection, and their families should be so proud of them.

“I want to say a huge thank you to our hardworking staff and to our supportive school community, who by working in partnership with staff are ensuring the very best education and opportunities are available for our children.”

Safeguarding and school governance were found to be effective. The report said: “Staff praise the new leadership and the consideration shown for their workload and wellbeing.”

Pictured are St Mary’s C of E Primary School children with EYFS teacher Tanya Bee (left) and headteacher Jennie Bailey.