THE hard work of staff and children and Antrobus St Mark’s has paid off after Church of England inspectors praised it as outstanding.

The primary school was rated as outstanding in every area following a SIAMS inspection this month – the Church's statutory inspection of Anglican and Methodist schools.

Inspectors, who assess all C of E and Methodist schools across the country, praised Antrobus St Mark’s for its leadership, Christian values, high standards in religious education and strong links with the wider community.

It follows the school’s good Ofsted rating, which was issued 12 months ago.

The report said: “Pupils’ behaviour is exemplary because they strive to show their kindness and trust.

“They are highly motivated, enthusiastic learners who thoroughly enjoy all the experiences provided for them, so attendance is good overall. All pupils are well-supported, particularly those with additional needs.

“Pupils make extremely good progress, striving to achieve the aspirational targets set for them. Parents agree that the school supports and encourages their children so that they can all flourish and achieve.”

The inspection was the first done at the school since it launched a partnership with Great Budworth CE Primary School in September 2016.

SIAMS inspectors said the collaboration is ‘having a very positive effect on outcomes for pupils’, while Great Budworth also received both an outstanding SIAMS rating and good Ofsted report earlier this year.

“The challenging financial position which brought about the collaboration with a neighbouring church school has been managed effectively,” the report said.

“Governors have secured exceptionally strong leadership and ensured the future growth and success of the school.

“Challenging staffing and budgetary issues have been managed skilfully and with Christian compassion.

“Effective training and support has ensured that governors have a clear understanding of their role in determining the strategic direction of the school. As a result, they are in a good position to deepen and extend the collaboration.”

Headteacher Sandra Finney, who is also headteacher at Great Budworth, told the Guardian that the glowing report reflected the dedication her staff put in, and praised the positive partnership with Great Budworth.

“To get four positive inspections across both schools in one year shows that we are maintaining a high standard,” she said.

“The report talks about the Christian leadership, and that drives all aspects of the school and makes us stand out, so it is nice for that to be acknowledged.

“All of the staff are prepared to go that extra mile and work hard for the children, to help them reach their potential.”