A CHURCH school founded on a Victorian vision is providing an exceptional environment for 21st century children to learn and grow.

That’s the verdict of Daphne Spritzer, who conducted a Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools visit to All Saints Church of England Primary School in Clevedon early in the academic year.

She said the school was an “exceptionally warm and nurturing community where adults and pupils are treated well” and praised headteacher Stephen Webber's inspirational leadership.

The inspector noted that the school’s vision, underpinned by a Bible verse from Proverbs: Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it, had a profound impact on pupils’ wellbeing, behaviour and achievement.

The many positive comments in her report included:

• The school’s vibrant and exciting curriculum provides a great breadth of rich and creative experiences.

• Pupils describe staff as ‘lovely’ people who inspire confidence enabling you ‘to feel you can do it’.

• Due to far-sighted actions by the leaders and staff, the potential of pupils identified as disadvantaged is being transformed.

All Saints is part of Futura Learning Partnership and the inspector commended the trust’s church schools forum, led by Mr Webber, which she said was highly valued by members.

“The trust provides exceptional support for the school’s strategic direction and has a powerful impact,” she reported.

Close links between the school and neighbouring church were also highlighted, as were the daily collective worship, the teaching of RE and the efforts to develop spirituality.

The report praised the “respectful culture of justice and responsibility” and suggested the children’s roles as agents for change in their school and community could be extended beyond their local environment.

Mr Webber said: “This SIAMS report is a lovely start to the school year for everyone at All Saints.

“I am proud that the inspector has recognised how our nurturing environmentpromotes joy, creativity and a lifelong love of learning.

“The passion and care of our children and staff, supported by our parents and carers, governors, the trust and the diocese, shines through in this report.”

Gary Schlick, chief executive of Futura Learning Partnership, said: “Congratulations to All Saints on a wonderful SIAMs outcome.

“The inspection report shows clearly how a “small and mighty” school contributes to, and benefits from, being part of a larger trust.

“I am confident this school will continue to build on its many strengths.”