A South Tyneside school has been awarded an outstanding rating from Ofsted after an inspection last November.
Hebburn-based school St Aloysius Catholic Junior School Academy has been praised by the education watchdog for the children's love of learning and the hard work of the teaching staff.
Part of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust, St Aloysius is said to benefit from a "calm and purposeful environment" and leadership skills are taught to students, who take on roles such as mental health champions and school councillors.
The behaviour of 242 pupils, aged 7-11 at the school on Argyle Street was "exemplary" according to the report, and Emily Stevens, leader inspector for Ofsted had this to say about them in her report.
“The quality of the curriculum and education pupils receive is exceptional.
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“Relationships between pupils and teachers are caring and respectful. Pupils respect and value one another. The Christian ethos is woven into the daily life of the school. In lessons, pupils consistently work hard and take pride in their work.
“Leaders have planned a highly ambitious and broad curriculum for all pupils. Staff at all levels understand this ambition and support pupils to achieve this. As a result, pupils have a vast range of deep and connected knowledge. Pupils are passionate about their learning and eager to share their achievements.”
The inspectors looked in depth at the curriculum taught at the school, specifically focusing on early reading, mathematics, history and art. They also looked at student's work in music and modern foreign languages. They spoke to a wide range of students, as well as teachers, some of which are in the very early stages of their careers.
Kathryn Fenwick, executive head teacher at St Aloysius said: “I am delighted that the hard work of St Aloysius staff and pupils has been recognised with an Outstanding judgement, and I am hugely proud of what we have achieved together as a school community.
“Our pupils’ love of learning, fabulous attitudes and exemplary behaviour is celebrated in the report. They thoroughly deserve this recognition.
“It is a huge privilege to lead St Aloysius and I am grateful for the commitment of our dedicated staff and the support of our families and governors, as well as to the wider trust network.”
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