A primary school’s vision has received praise from inspectors who said it was ‘highly inclusive and welcoming.’

The Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) published a report on Motcombe Primary School.

Inspectors visited the primary school in the North Dorset village of Motcombe last month and said in their report: “The vision is at the heart of the school and shines through in all the actions and decisions taken.

“It has a transformational impact on the community which it serves.”

The report said that the school is ‘highly inclusive and welcoming’ and ‘the wellbeing of pupils and staff is given high priority of all.’

The school’s efforts in rebuilding a bond with St Mary’s Church in Motcombe was also praised, with inspectors saying it “contributes to a sense of vibrancy within the village.”

Executive headteacher Matt Barge, and head of school Naomi Kendrick, said: “The whole Motcombe team is delighted with such a wonderful SIAMs report, that truly captures the essence of our school. 

“It reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone at our school, to enable us to offer the very best possible educational journey for all of our amazing children.”

Inspectors were also impressed by the curriculum.

The report said: “Pupils are developing their understanding and knowledge of injustice in the wider world.

“Environmental stewardship is an important thread throughout the school. Pupils have been agents of change in successfully reducing the dependency on single-use plastic at lunchtime, and courageous advocates in raising awareness of the impact of deforestation”. It concludes, “Motcombe is a shining example of how a village school can be a beacon of faith, friendship, learning and laughter for the community which it serves”. 

Motcombe Primary is part of the Sherborne Area Schools’ Trust (SAST).

Sarah Willoughby, who leads SAST’s work on the Church Schools Flourishing programme, said: "This report truly celebrates what it is to be a flourishing school, where all members of the local community thrive.

"This strong Christian ethos goes beyond Motcombe Primary School and is shared with our family of schools through genuine partnership and collaboration."   

SIAMS explores ways in which each school’s theologically rooted Christian vision drives its work and enables the school to live up to its foundation as a Church school.