A BASILDON school is celebrating an "outstanding" Ofsted rating after inspectors praised pupils for treating each other with the "utmost respect and kindness". 

St Anne Line Catholic Junior School, in Wickhay, Basildon, has been rated “outstanding” in all areas following an inspection on September 24 and 25.

Inspectors have highlighted the school’s warm, inclusive atmosphere, high academic standards, and nurturing environment.

It was the school's first full inspection since 2014, when it was rated "good". 

Inspection - St Anne Line Catholic Junior School hailed as outstandingInspection - St Anne Line Catholic Junior School hailed as outstanding (Image: St Anne Line Catholic Junior School)

In the report, published today, it stated: “Pupils love being part of this welcoming and diverse community.

“They benefit from the high-quality nurture and care that the school provides.

“Pupils’ attendance is exceptionally high. They do not want to miss out on school life.”

The inspection commended the pupils’ excellent behaviour and kindness towards each other.

It added: “Pupils follow the ‘St Anne Line way’ and treat each other and adults with the utmost respect and kindness.

“Pupils are polite and considerate of the differences between themselves and others. They help each other with their learning and support their peers on the playground.

Outstanding - Pupils praised for their kindness and respectOutstanding - Pupils praised for their kindness and respect (Image: St Anne Line Catholic Junior School)

“Pupils say they ‘are never short of a friend’ because the anti-bullying ambassadors make sure no one is lonely.

“Pupils live up to the school’s very high expectations. They behave exceptionally well and have positive attitudes to their learning.”

At the time of the inspection, there were 251 pupils at the school, all aged between seven and 11.

Nathalie Watson, headteacher at St. Anne Line Catholic Junior School, said: “We are incredibly proud that St. Anne Line Catholic Junior School has received the historic recognition of ‘outstanding’ in all areas from both Ofsted and the Catholic School’s inspection.

“This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, the enthusiasm of our wonderful pupils, and the unwavering support of our parents and community.

“To be recognised as ‘outstanding’ for overall effectiveness in two consecutive inspections, within the space of two weeks, truly reflects the faith, perseverance, and passion that drive our school.

“I feel truly blessed to lead a school where, by providing a nurturing and faith-filled environment, every child can thrive.”