Staff, pupils and parents received positive feedback following an inspection at an Accrington school.

St John's Stonefold Church of England Primary School underwent a SIAMS Statutory (Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools) inspection in March. The school caters for 122 pupils.

The report said: “St John’s Stonefold’s deep-rooted Christian vision, based on love, is at the heart of this impressive small school.

“The vision at St John’s Stonefold Church of England Primary School, results in a deeply welcoming school.

“Leaders are completely dedicated to meeting the needs of pupils. The vision permeates school life giving a strong culture of love, respect and trust between members of the school community.”

The curriculum was described as ‘inspirational and ambitious’.

The report added: “Relationships within the school are exceptionally strong.

"There is an overwhelming sense of being enveloped in Christian love, which is supporting and increasing pupils’ attendance.

"Pupils show courtesy to adults, play well together and enthusiastically help each other during the day. 

“An effective restorative approach to behaviour helps pupils learn from their mistakes. Pupils understand the importance of forgiveness and starting afresh.

"Staff give genuine, caring support to each other professionally and personally, compassionately helping parents when they have difficult times. 

“Pupils and staff proudly celebrate St John’s Stonefold as a ‘family with a big heart’ and clearly live this out daily. It is a highly inclusive school, all views are welcomed and staff wellbeing is of the utmost importance.”

The report said pupils ‘really enjoy RE'.

It said: “Leaders ensure that learning in RE is challenging, interesting, accurate and meets the expectations of RE in a Church school. 

"Early years’ enthusiastic re-enaction of the Easter story was an example of the vision in action. One child reported ‘Easter is not about eggs and bunnies but Jesus saving us all’. Using the diocesan resource, pupils are encouraged to respond to, and ask, big questions. 

“They learn about a range of religions and worldviews. This helps them to develop a sensitive and respectful appreciation of the impact of world religions. 

“In this, the school’s approach of inviting members of world religions to visit the school is fundamental. 

“It brings learning alive, exciting pupils and enriching their understanding of the beliefs and practices of others’. In this way, RE extends pupils’ appreciation of difference and diversity in society.”