Staff and pupils at a Hitchin primary school are "incredibly proud" to receive a "good" rating in their latest Oftsted inspection.

Purwell Primary School has received a major upgrade from its previous report in 2022, where the institution was deemed to "require improvement".

Purwell students and headteacher Richard Cano celebrate the Ofsted result - (left to right), Morgan Campbell-Phillips, Jasper Wong, William Harper, Charlotte Smith, Kamsy Obidiaso.Purwell students and headteacher Richard Cano celebrate the Ofsted result - (left to right), Morgan Campbell-Phillips, Jasper Wong, William Harper, Charlotte Smith, Kamsy Obidiaso. (Image: Purwell Primary School) Inspectors visited Purwell during September, observing lessons, pupils, teachers and SEND support, saying the school has "come a long way on its improvement journey".

Headteacher Richard Cano expressed his pride in the school’s achievement, saying: “This is a wonderful reflection of the hard work and dedication of the entire Purwell community – from our pupils and staff to our supportive parents and governors.

"I am incredibly proud of everyone’s commitment to making Purwell a safe and inspiring place to learn, and this report is a testament to how far we’ve come.”

The education watchdog called pupils "polite and welcoming".

All smiles at Purwell Primary School after a 'good' Ofsted report.All smiles at Purwell Primary School after a 'good' Ofsted report. (Image: Purwell Primary School) Ofsted added: "Students are happy and feel safe in their school.

"They understand and typically meet the school’s high expectations, as set out in ‘The Purwell Way’.

"As a result, most pupils are kind, behave well and want to do their best. They are proud of their work and enjoy opportunities to share their success with others."

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In regard to SEND provision, Ofsted said students are "supported to achieve well" across subjects.

During the inspection, the curriculum was identified as "well established and effective". 

Staff were also praised as they continue to "improve their practice" through ongoing training and "professional development".

To improve Ofsted highlighted that "not all staff are confident in delivering the intended curriculum".

Ofsted said: "The school should prioritise the ongoing evaluation of curriculum implementation so that support can be targeted precisely to match staff’s continued professional development needs."

Communication between parents and the school was also deemed "not as strong as it needs to be" in the report.