A POPULAR school has been praised by inspectors after a two-day visit.

Monitors from education watchdog Ofsted visited Christ Church Ainsworth C of E School in Tommy Lane, Ainsworth, on October 4 and 5 and published their report last Friday.

The school has 269 pupils and was given a ‘good’ rating — the second best of four possible ratings.

In her report, lead inspector Jo Olsson said the school was of a high standard and that pupils were making good progress in all areas.

The report said: “Care, respect and tolerance underpin warm relationships, strong teamwork and a joyful atmosphere at this successful school.

“Leaders keep a close eye on pupils’ achievement and teaching.

“They take quick and successful action whenever they spot weaknesses.

“Different groups of pupils, including those who are disadvantaged and the most able, are making the same progress as other pupils nationally, especially in reading and writing.”

Ms Olsson added that pupils’ achievement in reading is a “cause for celebration” and she praised teachers for “igniting” pupils’ enthusiasm for learning.

She said: “Teachers’ positive manner ensures that classrooms are inviting and pupils feel secure.”

In the report, Ofsted has given the school a six-point plan that it should work towards if it wants to achieve the top rating of ‘outstanding’ at the next inspection.

Those points include raising expectations of all teachers, tackling weaknesses in pupils’ grammar and providing pupils with more opportunities to understand mathematical ideas and concepts.

Ms Olsson said: “Cheerful smiles and a warm welcome from senior leaders greet parents and pupils at the front gate each morning.

“This sets the tone for the day.

“All pupils, regardless of their background, age or ability, are accepted, included and cherished.

“Staff are valued, free to share their ideas and respected for their expertise.

“Consequently, pupils love their learning community, staff morale is high and almost all parents and carers would recommend the school to others.”

She added that, when there are signs of poor behaviour, “even the smallest incidents are recorded and analysed to make sure that the school is a harmonious, safe and calm environment.”

Visit tinyurl.com/christchurchofsted2016 to read the full report.