THERE is reason to celebrate at St Mary’s in Marlborough after the primary school was given the highest Ofsted rating.

The Ofsted report was released on Monday following an inspection last month and the school was rated outstanding in all five areas ¬- leadership and management, behaviour and safety of pupils, quality of teaching and achievement of pupils and early years provision.

Headteacher Anne Schwodler said: “We are thrilled with the result.

“St Mary’s is a fabulous school and I am delighted to be a part of such a great team of dedicated staff and governors and, of course, our fantastic children.”

Behaviour and safety were also found to be outstanding as well as the school’s leadership.

The Ofsted summary report states:“Outstanding teaching has been effective in ensuring that pupils of all abilities make rapid progress.

“Outstanding provision in the early years ensures that children enjoy stimulating activities and make a very confident start to school.

“Pupils’ outstanding achievement is underpinned by the school’s distinctive spiritual, moral, social and cultural provision.”

The inspectors observed 16 lessons, met with members of the governing body and considered feedback from staff and parent questionnaires.

They also attended an assembly, talked to pupils about their work and life at school and heard pupils from Year 1 and Year 2 read.

Chairman of the school’s governing body Simon Taylor said: “The outcome is testament to the hard work and talent of Mrs Schwodler and all the staff.

“This report confirms that the school is doing everything it can to provide the best possible start to the education of the children of Marlborough.”