A SOUTHAMPTON primary school where children are "happy and safe" has been given the highest rating by education watchdogs.

Bitterne Manor Primary School has been awarded 'outstanding' in its most recent Ofsted report.

The school on Quayside Road teaches children aged between three and 11-years-old, and had 234 pupils at the time of the inspection.

Inspectors found that children are "safe, happy and well cared for", adding that pupils are " proud of their school and its inclusive practice".

The report said that pupils work hard, and staff "ensure that everyone is quickly made to feel welcome and understands the values of the school".

It added that teachers and staff work together to help pupils achieve, with staff having high expectations for all pupils.

Inspectors found that leaders deal with any incidents of behaviour that fall short of these high standards, including any bullying, "swiftly and effectively".

The report said: "Pupils know that their opinions matter. They feel empowered when they work with staff to make changes.

"Pupils also enjoy the inviting and well-stocked library, where they love to read."

Inspectors described the planned curriculum as "ambitious and reflects the breadth of the national curriculum".

The report found that school governors are "ambitious for pupils’ academic and personal success" adding that staff are "proud to work at the school".

In a December newsletter to parents, headteacher Mike Adams said: "Our recent Ofsted inspection (which is now public) was an opportunity to review our school priorities for the coming year. 

"Both targets revolve round the main theme; the effectiveness of our curriculum in achieving it’s aims for all our pupils. 

"We were pleased that they recognised the effort we put into our school culture and values, where all our children are learning to do the best they can. 

"Our school is one where I want all children to thrive and we will continue to work hard for them in 2023."

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.

Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.

You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.

Don't just take my word for it - subscribe today.

Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by searching Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents on Facebook

Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated group by searching Hampshire Court and Crime News on Facebook