Samuel Barlow Primary Academy in Clipstone is celebrating after being found to be good in all areas by Ofsted inspectors — a first for the school.

The school, part of Diverse Academies Trust, has gone from an Ofsted rating of ‘requires improvement’ to ‘good’, following a full inspection.

The academy was praised for wanting every pupil to do well and for being ambitious for all children. Inspectors also highlighted that children enjoy going to Samuel Barlow and that they are aspirational for their futures.

Leaders were recognised for the curriculum being broad and well-organised, and subject leaders were commended for being experts in their area of responsibility.

The report touched on how personal development is high on leaders’ agenda, as well as how children have opportunities to express their kindness and build characteristics such as resilience, respect and teamwork, all attributes that prepare a child for the future.

Executive principal Lucy Spacey said: “We are immensely proud of what has been achieved at Samuel Barlow Primary. The leadership team and staff have worked together with purpose to improve the quality of education for the children of Clipstone, and we are delighted this has been recognised by Ofsted.

“Together, we are committed to ensuring that Samuel Barlow continues to flourish and fulfil our vision of inspiring children, raising aspirations and creating brighter tomorrows.”

David Cotton, chief executive of the trust, said: “Over the last two years we have made an investment of almost £1.3m in the academy, including remodelling and refurbishing learning spaces, and providing new equipment to enhance curriculum delivery. With more developments planned, we believe the academy will continue to go from strength-to-strength.”