A PRIMARY school near Appleby is 'delighted' to find out they 'continue to be a good school' following an Ofsted inspection. 

The education watchdog inspected Long Marton Primary School, which caters to 93 pupils, in July. 

The inspectors reported that 'pupils thrive in this happy and rural school, arriving each morning ready and eager to learn'. 

They noted that 'pupils know that staff care about them' and 'feel valued and safe in the school’s nurturing environment.'

The report also highlighted the 'warm family feel of the school', stating that 'older pupils help children in the early years to settle into school life" and that "children in the early years flourish as they play and explore alongside their friends.'

Extra-curricular activities, including a wide variety of sporting events and cultural site visits, were commended, leading to awards such as the Gold Arts Mark and Gold Sports Games Mark.

The report also highlighted the school's investment in its library and reading programmes, noting that 'a love of reading is fostered throughout the school.'

However, the report did identify areas for improvement.

It stated: "In most subjects, the essential knowledge that pupils need to learn has been carefully ordered from the early years to Year 6. Staff know what pupils will learn and when it will be taught.

"Staff receive the training that they need to deliver the curriculum effectively. Carefully designed activities enable pupils to practice what they are learning.

"This helps pupils to build secure knowledge as they progress through the school.

"However, in some subjects, the key knowledge that the school wants pupils to learn is not clear.

"On occasion, this hampers pupils’ achievements in these subjects."

Headteacher Nicola Bardgett said: “We are delighted that the inspectors agreed with us that Long Marton is a good school.

"We are proud that families choose to send their children to us and that the hard work of the whole community, including staff, children, parents and governors has been recognised.

"As always, there are areas to work on and develop but we are pleased that these were ones we had identified ourselves and begun this process.”