A new free school has been declared “good” by Ofsted following its inaugural inspection.

Ascot Road Community Free School was visited by Ofsted inspectors in June, who found that since the school opened in 2014, senior leaders have created a “positive environment in which children feel valued, have the confidence to achieve well and make good personal and academic progress”.

They said that children were well looked after and are taught in a welcoming environment that makes them feel happy and safe.

Principal Helen Lockham said: “We are thrilled that the high expectations set by our staff have been recognised in the Ofsted judgements for our school.

“Our children enjoy learning in a stimulating environment which encourages them to develop lifelong learning skills for a better future.

“It is wonderful that the children’s behaviour has been recognised as impeccable, demonstrating our school values.”

Inspectors judged children’s behaviour to be outstanding and their conduct exemplary.

They listen well in class, learn enthusiastically and enjoy the many challenges and activities with which they are presented. Friendships and good humour were said to be highly evident.

Inspectors said the quality of teaching, learning and assessment was of a consistently high standard.

Teachers and teaching assistants were found to have positive relationships with the children and knew them well, resulting in children being highly motivated to learn and making good progress.

Despite the good report, inspectors said improvements could still be made, especially in pupil attendance which remained below the national average.  

David Gelernter, chairman of governors, added: “On behalf of the governors, we are pleased that our own assessment of the school learning environment and progress of our children has been recognised by the inspectors.

“This reflects the continuing incredible hard work and dedication of the whole school staff, to whom we are grateful, and confirms our view that Ascot Road is a wonderful place in which to learn.”