A SCHOOL in Bradford Abbas near Sherborne has been celebrating the results of a “glowing” inspection report.

St Mary’s CE Primary School was subject to a Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) inspection that highlighted the school’s strong Christian vision, its inclusive community and its commitment to helping pupils flourish.

The school’s distinctive vision based on the parable of the Sower, ‘The roots to grow, the wings to fly’, was praised as not just being a slogan but rather a “lived reality” that helps guide everything from leadership to life in the classroom.

Executive headteacher Ian Bartle said the SIAMS report is something to be proud of, as it reflects the “heart and soul” of the school.

“[The school is] a place where each child is known, valued, and given the tools they need to succeed in their own unique way,” he said.

“I’d like to praise all the staff at the school, and this is a tribute to the caring environment at St Mary’s.”

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The report also celebrated the school’s collective worship and spiritual development, noting that pupils are encouraged to reflect deeply and act with kindness, with a strong sense of justice and responsibility.

In the report, inspectors praised the confident and caring leadership team, as well as the support provided by the Sherborne Area Schools’ Trust (SAST).

It went on to describe the school’s relationship with pupils, families, staff, the local church, and the wider community as “characterised by mutual trust and the importance of maintaining each person’s wellbeing.”

Inclusion was also highlighted, particularly in its provision for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities.

Sarah Willoughby, who leads SAST’s flourishing programme, said: “This SIAMS report rightly celebrates the deep-rooted Christian vision of this school – a vision that has been embedded over time, which demonstrates how children, staff and the wider community are able to flourish through partnership working at all levels.”