A “SCHOOL with a soul” has received an Outstanding seal of approval in all aspects of education in a report produced by faith school inspectors.

Representatives from the Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) spent several days visiting the High Coniscliffe Church of England Primary School earlier this term.

Inspectors found that standards had improved significantly since 2016 with the school of 106 pupils now achieving well above national averages for reading and maths.

The primary school, off Ulnaby Lane, in High Coniscliffe, near Darlington, has formed The Dove Trust with St Mary’s Voluntary Aided Primary School in Cockerton, with executive head teacher Wendy Aitken overseeing both faith schools.

In the SIAMS report produced following a visit in late November, inspector Valerie Hall said: “Behaviour is exemplary and children are autonomous and self-reliant.

“The school and its leaders recognise that there is something unique in every person, as a unique child of God and celebrate this at every opportunity.

“Children are encouraged to talk about their faith and beliefs and talents are shared in worship.

“This celebration of uniqueness shapes the approach to attendance and behaviour which are exemplary.”

SIAMS inspections fall under Section 48 of the Education Act 2005, the same Act that Ofsted inspections come under.

Ms Hall added: “Partnerships with the local churches are strong and the vicar of St Edwin’s parish church is a member of the local academy council, thus formalising an already strong link.

“The chaplain maintains strong links with the world wide Anglican Communion through visits to Lesotho and Germany, to the benefit of the whole school community.”

Recently appointed head of school, Kaye Boyce, said: “The report truly captures everything that is special about this school and I feel very privileged to be part of such a wonderful team of hard working and dedicated staff and work with such caring, polite and friendly children and their families.”

Executive head teacher, Mrs Aitken, added: “The formation of The Dove Academy Trust has ensured the continued success of the school, which continues to go from strength to strength.”