A Suffolk school where 'pupils feel comfortable being themselves' and feel part of a 'big family' has been rated 'good' by Ofsted. 

Ofsted inspectors praised Hartest Church of England Primary School, Bury St Edmunds, for its “steadfast” dedication for creating a vibrant learning environment.

They highlighted the school’s close ties with the on-site pre-school which helps pupils “typically flourish from the moment they start the reception year”.

The report said: “Pupils attend a small school that sees itself as a big family.

“Many pupils trust that kind behaviour is the norm in their school. Such kindness means pupils feel comfortable being themselves."

“This puts pupils in a positive state of mind from which to listen and learn.”

This comes as Reydon Primary School in Suffolk was also rated by rated 'good' by Ofsted recently 

READ MORE: Southwold and Reydon pupils to receive free school lunches

East Anglian Daily Times: Inspectors said their work, alongside support from the wider school community, “keeps the school going from strength to strength”.Inspectors said their work, alongside support from the wider school community, “keeps the school going from strength to strength”. (Image: Prominent PR)

Hartest CofE Primary School has undergone significant improvements after having previously been rated “inadequate” in 2021.

Executive Headteacher, Amanda Woolmer, said: “I am thrilled to see the hard work of the entire teaching team – and our pupils – has been recognised by inspectors."

The recent Ofsted report did still identify some areas that needed to be worked on.

It was noted that "some staff need to strengthen how they use their observations and questions" and are "slow in spotting and quickly resolving pupils’ mistakes".

Concerns were also raised about absenteeism of some children and investigators said "more needs to be done to tackle this issue".

READ MORE: Primary school unveils new all-weather track for pupils to use in winter

Overall, Jane Sheat, CEO of the St Edmundsbury and Ipswich Diocesan MAT, added: “All of us at the Diocesan MAT are delighted by the findings of this report.

“Mrs Woolmer and her team have done a fantastic job of creating a culture that champions good behaviour and makes reading and learning fun and engaging.

“Everyone at the school should feel incredibly proud of their achievements.”