A PRIMARY school is “extremely pleased” following its latest inspection by an education watchdog.

St Cedd’s Primary School, in East End Road, Bradwell, has been given a good rating in its latest Ofsted inspection.

The report praises the school for its culture, saying pupils show “a great deal of compassion and care for each other” and “staff and pupils have respectful and supportive relationships”.

The inspector also made note of the way the school approaches diversity, stating “pupils understand that being different should be valued and respected”.

In order to improve, the inspector said a “small number of pupils do not read books that closely match their phonics knowledge” which “slows down pupils’ ability to read fluently”.

The inspector said the books read by pupils need to “closely match their phonics knowledge, so that all become confident, fluent readers as quickly as possible”.

The pupils who need support were said to “not receive a teaching and support approach that focuses precisely on the gaps in their phonics knowledge”.

Headteacher Lyndsey Wood said: “I am extremely pleased that the inspectors captured our school as a caring, safe and happy environment. This is a school where everyone feels valued and included.

“The inspectors speak highly of the curriculum we have developed with our children in mind, which ensures they develop the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in their future lives.

“They identified the curriculum as ambitious and inclusive of all our children, with children enjoying the wider opportunities including trips and enrichment activities.”

The school is part of the Chelmsford-based Vine Schools Trust, which manages 23 schools in Essex.

Trust CEO Emma Wigmore said: “We are so proud of both the staff and children at St Cedd’s for demonstrating how fantastic their small village school is.

“It is wonderful to read a report that frequently mentions the respect that staff and pupils show each other.

"As a trust, we are proud that our schools create cultures that empowers all to flourish, which is one of our core values.”