A RURAL primary school where “children are cherished” has received the highest possible grading in a recent inspection, putting it among the top five per cent of Church of England schools.
Evenwood primary was rated excellent in a Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) inspection, which measured not only the academic achievements but also the Christian vision of the school.
Head of school Lindsey Volans said: “It has been a long time coming for Evenwood as it’s an absolute pocket rocket.
“The atmosphere of the school and community is second to none and these children are really cherished. I’m so proud of what they have done and how these children are cherished here.
“What is really nice is a lot of the staff are from the area and I think that is part of why it feels so special.”
Stacey Rand, who has been headteacher for four years, said: “To get the excellent rating puts us in the top five per cent of schools and we are really proud of this achievement.
“We were graded good in the previous inspection in 2015. We are proud of the work that we have done with the pupils, staff and community and that this was recognised by the inspector.”
David Bowes, chairman of the school’s governors, said: “The staff should be really proud of what they have achieved because sometimes small, rural schools are looked down upon, but this is a wonderful achievement.
For the past five years the school has worked closely with another primary in Bishop Middleham as part of a federation, and became part of the One Excellence Multi Academy Trust, based in Billingham, this year.
Church of England education officer Susan Thackray said in her report: “Evenwood is an excellent church school, living out its distinctly Christian vision in every way.
“All members of the school community are empowered to ‘live life in all its fullness’.
“Staff unequivocally talk with passion about the support that is offered to ensure that every pupil leaves Evenwood with the belief they can achieve more than they thought possible.
“This is a school where that exceptional support does not stop at the school gate but extends out to families and the wider community.”
She added: “Transformational leadership, led by an inspiring executive headteacher and head of school, make bold decisions to ensure strong partnerships within One Excellence Multi Academy Trust and beyond.”
