CHIDDINGFOLD village school is enjoying bumper results on two fronts.

Not only has St Mary’s Primary School just been rated ‘good’ by Ofsted, but it also has a new outdoor classroom.

Ofsted inspectors visited in February for a full two-day inspection. Following their last visit in March 2016, they reported the school required improvement, but they have now judged St Mary’s as good in all categories.

The report stated: “Leaders and governors have significantly improved the quality of education since the last inspection.

“Leaders, supported by the academy trust, have improved the overall quality of teaching. Pupils’ progress and standards of attainment have risen significantly.

“The personal development and welfare of pupils is outstanding. The quality of provision in the early years has improved since the last inspection. Parents speak highly of the school. The sense of community is prized, and they value the improvements that have been made.

“Pupils leave St Mary’s as self-assured, confident and articulate individuals. They are well prepared for the next stage of their education and to play a role in the wider community.”

Supportive parents went the extra mile – literally – and rose to the Three Peaks Challenge last summer, raising £16,000 to be divided between Young Minds charity and the creation of an outdoor classroom.

A grand total of 22 mums from the school PTA conquered the UK’s three tallest mountains – Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowden – over a weekend to raise funds.

Celebrating both St Mary’s Ofsted and its new classroom, headteacher Janis Radcliffe, said: “I am extremely fortunate to work with the staff and pupils and to have the support of a superb team of governors and members of the Good Shepherd Trust.

“We are very grateful to parents.

“Pupils will benefit enormously from being outdoors, in the fresh air, learning about the natural world and the importance of looking after our planet.”