STAFF and students at one North Cornwall school are celebrating following a successful Ofsted report.

St Mark’s CofE Academy in Shop is celebrating after being rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted in all areas following an inspection prior to the summer holidays.

In their report inspectors commented that strong and respectful relationships are at the heart of St Mark’s and that pupils are happy, safe and demonstrate a high level of care for each other. The school was also praised for the variety of enrichment activities it offers with inspectors noting that pupils value highly the recently strengthened range of opportunities afforded to them by the school.

St Mark’s focus on reading was also singled out in the report which included the following feedback: ‘children in the Nursery Year enjoy listening to stories and joining in with well-known rhymes. Children start to learn to read as soon as they begin the Reception Year. There is precise support in place for pupils who fall behind to catch up rapidly with their peers. Pupils read with interest and become confident, fluent readers.’

The purpose-built nursery at the school was also commended by inspectors for providing a nurturing environment, with inspectors stating that children in the nursery learn routines in preparation for starting school.

Commenting on the result, Deirdre Petersen, headteacher at the school said: “I am delighted that Ofsted noted that St Mark’s is ambitious for what our pupils can achieve, both academically and in their wider development and that our children meet these high expectations. This positive report is a testament to our entire school community and I want to say a massive thank you to all our pupils, staff and families who make St Mark’s such a special place to learn and grow.”