A WEST Cumbrian infant school has received a new rating from Ofsted. 

Kells Infant School in Whitehaven received a rating of Outstanding when it was inspected on October 8 and October 9. 

This was the first time that the school was inspected since 2014. 

Inspectors were impressed with the 'friendly' and 'inclusive' nature of the school and activities provided to all children. 

The curriculum was described as ‘broad and ambitious’ and was well delivered.

The inspectors were particularly impressed with the 'adaptions and provision for pupils with Special Needs.'

Mrs Figes, the headteacher, said: "I am exceptionally proud to be the Headteacher of this school.

"We put the needs of the children first and concentrate on relationships as the key to success.

"The children get the best possible start here at Kells Infants School, our aim is to support children to develop as kind, independent, respectful, and well-rounded young people.

"We are proud that we cater to a range of children from our community and that our parents value the support that they get from us.

"Our professional and skilled team does their best every single day to provide high-quality experiences for all pupils.

"I am thrilled that Ofsted has recognised the hard work that the school has done and look forward to continuing on our journey of improvement in the months and years to come."

Inspectors praised the provision for Early Reading and recognised that ‘Reading is at the heart of the Curriculum’ praising the ‘new vibrant library’.

They recognised that ‘Pupils gain the phonics knowledge that they need to become confident and fluent readers’.

Particular praise was given for the provision in the Early Years. This was rated Outstanding owing to the provision for developing language, support for children with complex needs, and how attentive even the youngest children were to their learning.

The provision for Personal Development was also rated Outstanding owing to 'the time and effort given to support difference and diversity and the preparation children receive to support them for the next stages in their learning.'