A school where pupils “relish learning” has been praised highly in its first Ofsted inspection in over a decade.

Heron Way Primary in Heron Way, Horsham, was inspected by the education watchdog and in the report, published on April 25, retained an outstanding grading.

It had not been inspected in over 12 years.

Inspectors Jo Brinkley, Andy Platt and Vickie Farrow said pupils “relish learning and rightly take pride in their achievements”.

Teachers were lauded for their “deep understanding of how to meet pupils’ emotional and physical needs”.

The report said: “This creates an inclusive atmosphere where both pupils and adults feel supported to try out new experiences, make mistakes and grow personally.

“As a result, staff are experts in the subjects they teach and all pupils achieve highly.

“Pupils behave exceptionally well.

“Staff lead by example, showing high expectations that everyone will treat each other with kindness and respect.”

The school, which teaches children aged four to 11, was rated outstanding in all five categories: quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management and early years provision.

Just over 400 pupils go to the school which was inspected on February 20 and 21 this year.

The report added: “Teachers make the curriculum so fascinating that pupils cannot wait to find out more about it. They love the interesting activities their teachers design for them. They are not afraid to challenge themselves, knowing that if they get stuck, their teachers will help them get back on track.

“Pupils quickly develop resilience, determination and admirable attitudes to learning.”

The school “designs bespoke opportunities for pupils to build character”, the report said.

“Trips to the River Arun, Brighton and the Isle of Wight enhance the curriculum successfully.

“Pupils are taught how to keep themselves safe on the internet. They learn how to look after their physical and emotional health, saying that ‘a problem shared is a problem halved’.

“Pupils are taught that everyone is valued, and that difference is a strength.”

Head teacher James Crump said: “The children at this school are amazing and for Ofsted to recognise our efforts as outstanding is fantastic. The whole community are thrilled to receive this recognition – and this is a major team effort.

"Staff, children, parents, carers and governors all play their part in making Heron Way such a great place to work, learn and have fun. Horsham is full of great schools and we will continue to work alongside our fellow establishments to ensure the best possible outcomes for the young people across our communities.”