A ‘warm and caring’ primary school has celebrated its tenth birthday in style – with a glowing report from Government inspectors.

The Rydal Academy, in Darlington, has been confirmed as a ‘Good’ school in its latest rating by Ofsted.

The good news comes just days after the school, which is part of the Swift Academies trust, staged a party for pupils, staff and govenors to celebrate its 10th anniversary.

The Ofsted report states: “All staff aim to make Rydal Academy a haven for all who attend. There are high expectations for what pupils can achieve. Leaders do everything they can to protect, guide and support the pupils in their care. This extends beyond the school day and beyond the school gates.”

The report adds: “Leaders provide calm and purposeful leadership. They are ambitious for all pupils.

They have created a warm and caring school where pupils are valued as unique individuals. Pupils say that they love school and their teachers and that they, ‘learn lots.’”

Headteacher, John Armitage, who has led The Rydal Academy since it opened in January 2013, said: “This is a significant landmark for the Academy, marking ten years of high-quality education provision and service to our local community.

“For our tenth birthday celebrations to be coupled with such a positive Ofsted report is recognition of the exceptional work which has taken place daily from staff, governors, supporting agencies, parent/carers and, of course, our amazing pupils.

“We are now seeing former pupils from our first cohorts graduating from university, or establishing themselves in careers, which will provide them with opportunities to be successful in life and to make a positive contribution to society.

“This validates the hard work and the tough decisions we have to make in order to support our mission of Targeting potential, raising aspiration and achieving excellence.”

Dean Judson, Chief Executive of Swift Academies, said: “I am thrilled with the Ofsted report and extremely pleased for the staff, students, parents and carers who have worked in partnership to create such an amazing school.”