IT WAS a double celebration for Reigate Parish Infant School after it was rated outstanding by Ofsted inspectors for the second straight inspection, as well as outstanding in its Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools report.
The latest report from the education watchdog was not entirely unexpected for Frances Davis, head teacher at the Church of England School, but she said it has lifted a weight as schools face tougher scrutiny.
"It's much harder in the current Ofsted climate," said Mrs Davis, who was facing her first report as head teacher. "We also had our church inspection and we got outstanding in that. That's also got a lot harder.
"We've been ensuring an outstanding education for all our children, especially in reading, writing and maths.
"We also value science, history and art, where we have good standards, as well as building pupils' self-confidence and self-esteem."
There was extra pressure on the school, with Mrs Davis, coming in on the back of a previous outstanding rating by Ofsted.
But she said the attitude of the staff and pupils had meant the school hadn't been resting on its laurels and had been making efforts to improve in every area.
"It was my aim that we get outstanding, and specifically with the teachers and staff to show that we give an outstanding education here."
In its report, Ofsted inspectors praised the staff and students at the Blackborough Road school, saying that attainment was above the national average and that all pupils, including vulnerable groups, made exceptional progress.
The report continued: "Teaching and learning are outstanding. Nearly all teaching observed was good, with much that was outstanding in all years.
"There is a strong sense of community through the spiritual, moral, social and cultural aspects of the school. This includes fundraising and getting involved in events. Behaviour in lessons is outstanding, with pupils showing respect for each other.
"There are excellent relationships between pupils and all adults."
