Church school celebrates after being declared an outstanding school

An East Devon Church school is celebrating after being declared an outstanding school.

Otterton Church of England VA Primary School was upgraded from good to outstanding in the latest report by the National Society Statutory Inspection of Anglican Schools.

Headteacher Carron Saunders said: “We are delighted. There is a lovely ethos here, our children are spiritual, thoughtful and caring and we see that on a day to day basis. It’s good to see it recognised by an outside body.”

The report said: “The school is a welcoming and nurturing community in which all learners are effectively supported in their academic learning and personal development.

"Teachers, governors, other school staff, and the local clergy, actively promote the distinctiveness of the school, and celebrate its Christian character. Learners are happy and successful, and they enjoy life at Otterton.

"The school community is one in which the effectiveness of the Christian foundation leads to increasing academic success, and to excellent spiritual development for all.”

The Archdeacon of Exeter, the Venerable Christopher Futcher, who visited the school to present the certificate said: “It is obviously a happy and confident school environment with a real sense of Christian community in which to learn and grow.”