STAFF, governors and pupils are ‘overjoyed’ their school has been rated ‘outstanding’ across all areas by Ofsted.

Bookwell School in Egremont has achieved the highest rating from the education watchdog following an inspection carried out in June.

It was the school’s first full inspection since October 2011 and since then, Ofsted’s inspection framework has undergone significant changes, making it increasingly challenging for schools to retain 'outstanding' grades.

Bookwell School pupils celebrate their Ofsted successBookwell School pupils celebrate their Ofsted success (Image: Submitted)

The report says: “Pupils thrive at this welcoming and friendly school. The school’s belief that every pupil matters resonates throughout the school. Staff ensure that pupils are happy and they are excited by their learning and the wider experiences afforded to them. Pupils behave exceptionally well.

“The school has exceptionally high expectations for pupils’ achievement. Pupils rise to these and have excellent attitudes to learning. They are enthusiastic, motivated and keen to do well.

“Teachers are highly skilled at delivering the curriculum consistently well across the school. They have the knowledge and expertise to help pupils to acquire a deep body of knowledge over time.

“Learning activities, resources and the environment help pupils to learn the ambitious curriculum extremely well. This is reflected in the school’s published outcomes.”

Bookwell School was judged to be outstanding across all areas by OfstedBookwell School was judged to be outstanding across all areas by Ofsted (Image: Submitted)

Headteacher Russell Hardy said: "Securing the highest rating in each aspect of the Ofsted inspection framework is a truly remarkable accomplishment. The report captured the warm, nurturing, and encouraging ethos that defines our school. My heartfelt thanks goes out to all our teachers, support staff, children, parents, and governors."

Moving forward, Mr Hardy and his team are determined to build on this success. He added: "While we are extremely proud of this recognition, we are committed to continuous improvement. We will always keep striving to provide the best possible education for our children."