PUPILS and staff at a Great Yarmouth first school can relax and enjoy the summer break in the knowledge their school has been judged as outstanding across the board.

PUPILS and staff at a Great Yarmouth first school can relax and enjoy the summer break in the knowledge their school has been judged as outstanding across the board.

Ofsted said Alderman Swindell First School was “an outstandingly effective school”, where “standards are high and children make outstanding progress.”

It is the 16th school in the county to be given the highest accolade by impressed inspectors.

Inspectors from the education watchdog praised the leadership of the headteacher, the strength of teaching and the exemplary behaviour and maturity of the pupils.

They said parents were “highly appreciative of the school” with one describing it as “absolutely wonderful” and saying that “every child definitely matters”.

Ofsted noted that everyone involved in the school works in partnership to ensure all children benefit from everything on offer.

They said: “All individuals, children and adults alike, are highly valued, nurtured and challenged to do their best and expectations for everyone are high. Consequently, children thrive and become exceptionally well-rounded individuals.”

Ofsted said the school's success was down to the “exceptionally” clear vision and strong direction of the headteacher. As one teacher explained “the headteacher has a burning belief that she can reach the unreachable.”

Headteacher Alison Hopley said: “We are absolutely thrilled with this report which recognises our efforts to bring out the best in each and every one of our pupils.

“We are delighted that the report acknowledges the dedication and commitment expressed by all members of the school community, including staff, governors, parents and pupils. Our school is a fantastic place to teach and learn and I am sure with our continued determination we can build on this success.”