A PRIMARY school in Dawlish has received high praise from Ofsted inspectors.

Gatehouse Primary School’s inspection report particularly highlighted personal development, inclusion and wellbeing at the school, now under the leadership of new head of school Jason Stephens.

Mr Stephens said, ‘The inspection took place at a time of significant change, both personally in stepping into the role of Head of School and nationally through Ofsted’s new inspection framework.

‘That framework places greater emphasis on understanding schools in their context, and having a deep, established knowledge of Gatehouse meant we were able to present an open, honest and accurate picture of our school.

‘It was reassuring to see inspectors take the time to recognise the strengths we have been building over time, particularly around personal development, wellbeing and inclusion, while also reflecting the areas we know are still developing.

‘The report captures Gatehouse as a school where pupils, staff and the wider community all play an important part in shaping a positive and supportive environment.’

Inspectors said the school’s attendance expectations as ‘clear and increasingly well met’ with ‘positive, respectful children’.

Pupils have access to an ‘ambitious, well-sequenced curriculum across core and wider subjects’.

There is a ‘clear commitment’ to promoting an inclusive culture with well trained staff who have the skills and knowledge needed to support vulnerable and disadvantaged pupils.

The school’s outdoor play area was celebrated in the report, which highlights how well the space extends children’s learning.

Children are able to take part in an extensive extra-curricular programme with performances, sporting festivals, residential trips and enrichment days, and are offered a sense of responsibility with various leadership roles.

Paul Walker, Chief Executive at governing body First Federation Trust, said: ‘Together with Mr Stephens and the team at Gatehouse, we are wholly committed to ensuring pupils receive the best start to their important journey into education, with a clear vision for success.’