AN INFANT school has maintained its good status with praise for action taken to improve.

Anton Infant School was visited by Ofsted on January 23 this year for a short inspection, after it was previously judged to be ‘good’ in March 2015.

Inspector Brian Macdonald praised headteacher Kelly Bird, who was permanently appointed to the position in 2015.

The report, published last month, said: “Since your appointment you have established a clear vision for the success of the school. You have an accurate understanding of the school’s strengths and weaknesses and have developed a clear plan for improvement.

“You have built upon the school’s existing effectiveness and have introduced improvements.”

It was noted that pupils achieve well, with standards rising for the past three years and last year outcomes were well above the national average.

In the last inspection Ofsted said work was needed to develop handwriting, and a new scheme has been established.

Action has also been taken improve the outdoor provision in the early years, the report said: “The enhanced outdoor area now encourages children to take their learning outside, where they can build on skills and activities started in the classroom.

“Activities are now regularly planned by staff to ensure that this area is used to its maximum potential.”

The school’s safeguarding was applauded by inspectors, adding: “There is a strong culture of safeguarding that underpins all aspects of the school’s work.

“You [Mrs Bird] have developed effective procedures for recording and following up concerns regarding any pupil who may be at risk.”

And it was said that the “present curriculum is broad, balanced and accessible to all.”

The letter to Mrs Bird added: “Leaders have designed the curriculum so that it links to the school values: to become responsible young learners, successful individuals and inspired learners. These values underpin all aspects of your curriculum.”

Educational trips and visits to the school by external groups were also highlighted as making learning exciting for pupils.

alongside the curriculum, pupils have opportunities to take part in many extra activities, including orienteering, badminton, dance or sewing, with a group of students adding: “Teachers are fun, and learning is fun.”

Parents are also highly supportive, with one parent, reflecting the views of many, said: “It is a nurturing school where each child is important, and they all make great progress.”

Mrs Bird said: “I am really proud of what we have achieved at the school for the children. Really proud to be the headteacher of Anton Infants and working with a great team that do so much for the children which is clear in the report.”

She added that the key aspects highlighted in the previous inspection have now been addressed across the school.

“We work well together for the ultimate, making sure the children have a great education.”