A SCHOOL founded just five years ago in a portable building has been awarded ‘outstanding’ status across the board.

Staff at Cambrai Primary School, in Catterick, were overjoyed to learn the school had been rated as ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted in quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development leadership and management, early years provision, and overall effectiveness.

The school – part of Lingfield Education Trust – was established in 2019, with just 22 children in a portable building with Assistant Head Teacher Stephanie Guest, and now has more than 150 in modern facilities. Stephanie has been with the school ever since.

Head of School, Laura Robinson, said: “This report is testament to the fantastic team we have. Our staff work incredibly hard to ensure our children receive the best possible experience at school, and it’s wonderful to have this effort recognised.”

She also acknowledged “the amazing contribution” of pupils and their families, saying: “We couldn’t do what we do without children who are keen to learn and love coming to school, and that’s down to the support they receive at home.”

The report highlights how the “strong partnership” between the school and families ensures excellent pupil attendance, adding: “Pupils enjoy attending school and parents value the exceptional quality of education.”

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Many pupils come from military families based at Catterick Garrison, and the report recognises the active part they play in the school.

“Pupils’ behaviour is exceptional. From the youngest age, children are kind and caring. As pupils get older, they take responsibility for other pupils’ well-being,” the report adds.

“Pupils learn the ‘Cambrai Way’ from the day that they start. They embrace the values of the school. As a result, pupils are happy and safe. Opportunities for pupils to take on different leadership roles are extensive.”

Mark Dent, Executive Headteacher, said: “We’re thrilled that the report emphasizes pupils’ behaviour as exceptional, and the way they embrace our values of kindness, respect, bravery, coolness, fairness and stickability.

“Our school motto is ‘We Grow Good People, Who Do Great Things’, and the report recognizes that it’s the pupils who really bring that to life through their attitudes to learning.”

The report also highlights the positive role played by governors, stating: “The school, governing body and trust unite to ensure an exceptional and memorable school experience for pupils. The high level of challenge and support that governors provide ensures the school strives for perfection.

“Leaders, governors, and the trust make sure the workload and well-being of staff remains at the forefront of everything they do. As a result, staff are proud to work at Cambrai Primary School and feel highly valued.”

Lingfield Education Trust Chief Executive, Nick Blackburn, said: “We’re incredibly proud of the brilliant leadership and staff team we’ve assembled at Cambrai, and of all the pupils and families.

“This result is entirely deserved, and a true reflection of the school’s exceptional work with this wonderful community.”