A BRAINTREE school has been praised by a government watchdog after its first inspection in six years.
John Bunyan Primary School and Nursery, in Lancaster Way, has received a ‘good’ Ofsted rating following a two-day inspection.
The report says pupils are "very happy” to be part of the school.
They enjoy regular workshops from a local theatre company to help them with drama and writing skills, and appreciate the extra activities and trips provided.
Pupils say their teachers are the best thing about the school because they "make lessons interesting” and staff expect students to get fully involved with their learning to a high standard.
Staff also take effective action if pupils' behaviour is bad.
The report says the school promotes a love of books and reading among pupils.
It said: “Staff regularly read to pupils, and parents are routinely invited in to share this experience.
"Older pupils’ reading records are detailed and thorough.
“Pupils are keen to share their enthusiasm for particular genres and authors.”
Teaching at the school is said to be “lively and engaging”, with well-planned activities to encourage pupils to think and ask questions.
The report said: “Teaching assistants are well deployed to help pupils with special educational needs access the same curriculum as everyone else, and all required national curriculum activities are covered.
As constructive feedback, the report says the school’s wider curriculum is organised in a way which does “not always help teachers to identify the progress pupils are making in different subjects”.
Headteacher Lisa Waters said: “We are delighted with the outcome of our recent Ofsted inspection.
“The whole school team works tirelessly to meet the academic, social and emotional needs of all our pupils.
“We are pleased that the inspector recognised the strengths of our children and the daily opportunities provided for them by our fantastic team.
“It was lovely to hear the children’s comments about how happy they are at John Bunyan.
“We are extremely proud that we continue to be a 'good' school.”
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