THE “positivity and kindness” of staff at a Basildon school has been praised for ensuring pupils know they are cared for and are empowered to succeed.

Northlands Primary School, in Winifred Road, has retained its “good” rating in its first inspection in five years after Ofsted assessed the school on July 16 and 17.

Inspectors revealed how “pupils told us how much they enjoy their learning” in their report.

The school, which provides education for more than 700 pupils, received a “good” rating in every area, aside from personal development where it was rated “outstanding”.

The report stated: “Pupils love their school. This is because the school gives them exceptional experiences.

“Pupils immerse themselves in engaging activities linked to art, poetry, music and a diverse array of books.

“Pupils take pride in their class assemblies where everyone gets to join in. Many pupils told us how much they enjoy their learning.”

The school was last rated in July 2019, when it was also rated as “good” - the second highest Ofsted rating.

The report added: “Pupils are at the centre of the school’s work. Staff’s positivity and kindness ensure pupils know they are cared for.

“Pupils behave well, and learning is rarely disrupted. Pupils recognise why some pupils find behaviour tricky.

“Clear behaviour routines ensure staff manage any poor behaviour well. This contributes to a positive learning community.

“The school is regularly and professionally challenged by the trust to ensure pupils get a high-quality school experience.”

At the time of the inspection, there were 749 pupils at the school.

Ben Figg, headteacher at Northlands Primary School and Nursery, said: ‘We are extremely proud of the Ofsted report which shines a light on the incredible lengths our staff, families and pupils go each and every day to make Northlands an amazing school to attend.

“The fact our personal development provision has been rated as outstanding is hugely pleasing because preparing pupils for their future by providing a vast range of development opportunities is central to our mission and I believe key in creating positive learners and citizens of the future.

“As the report states, ‘our pupils are at the centre of the school’s work’.”