Ellistown Community Primary School has retained its 'Good' rating following the latest Ofsted inspection - with pupils saying they are 'proud' of their school.

The Whitehill Road-based school received a visit from inspectors over two days early in July.

That followed a previous inspection six years earlier when a 'Good' rating was given to the school.

On this occasion, the inspectors said: "What is it like to attend this school? Pupils are proud of their school.

"They say that their lessons are fun and describe 'the joy of getting more knowledge'.

"They enjoy 'dance breaks' to refresh their brains and the active playtimes that they share with their friends.

"Parents are highly supportive of the school, and many say that they 'cannot fault it at all'.

"One parent summed up these views when they said: 'This school is a home for our family.'

"The school rules are understood by all. Pupils are generally highly attentive in class. The youngest children quickly follow well-established routines.

"Pupils understand that some of their classmates need more help to make the right choices with their behaviour. They are proud of the way they work together - for example, to earn treats at the Year 6 camp out. Pupils know the school's values well.

"They say: 'This school makes you into a better person.' Pupils know about different types of bullying. They say that adults at the school help them to resolve any disputes quickly.

"Older pupils speak with pride about their roles as playground buddies, who make sure that younger pupils always have someone to play with."

The inspectors highlighted what the school does well and what it could do better.

They added: "Leaders are determined that every child will quickly become a fluent reader.

To this end, a new phonics curriculum is now in place. Staff pay close attention to how children write letters. They make sure that children form them correctly.

"Pupils who need help to catch up get it. Staff know how to provide the right support during these lessons for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

"There is a special time every day for pupils to read together, both individually and as a class. Teachers use this time to help pupils encounter new vocabulary.

"Older pupils explain that a precise knowledge of the meaning of words helps them to picture in their head what the author wants them to imagine.

"Teachers value the training they have received to teach mathematics well. They say that they have had all the help they need to learn 'The Ellistown Way' of being a teacher.

"The curriculum is organised well. Pupils' knowledge deepens with practise.

"Teachers check what pupils can remember. They make sure that pupils get help to refresh their memories and fill gaps.

"Pupils enjoy the broad curriculum. The youngest children make detailed designs of vehicles and label them.

"Pupils in key stage 1 can explain how making a moon buggy out of plastic bricks helped them to find out how axles work.

"Leaders want to 'spark an interest' in pupils. Much thought goes into the new experiences they plan.

"For example, pupils learned about new aspects of the arts as part of a residential visit. Some pupils were inspired by what they learned about 'stop/go animation'. They run a club and share their knowledge with others.

"Pupils say that one of the best aspects of their school is that everyone is included. They explain that differences are to be celebrated and that all are welcome.

"Staff, including those who are new to teaching, feel exceptionally well supported. They say that leaders, including governors, are highly mindful of their workload and well-being.

"They feel appreciated and rewarded and are willing to work together as a team to make the school the best it could possibly be for the pupils and families."