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St Bartholomew's C of E Primary has been awarded the highest possible marks in its 2009 Ofsted report, scoring an overall grade '1' and an "outstanding" tag.

The inner city school – where the 400-plus youngsters speak more than 20 languages – repeated its success from the last inspection in 2006, despite now having almost 100 more pupils.

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Inspectors praised the school for the "stunning progress" of many children from deprived backgrounds, and for its "calm and harmonious" learning atmosphere.

A particular strong point was the school's success with the high proportion of its pupils whose first language is not English – many were going on to reach the same learning standards as their peers, the inspectors noted.

Overall they were impressed with the school's success in transforming the lives of children who might not be expected to achieve highly.
From a low starting point, almost all pupils were reaching national standards in English, Maths and Science by Year 6.

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Headteacher Pauline Gavin said: "I am delighted that the school has once again received an outstanding report. It reflects all the hard work and commitment of the staff and pupils."

The school was praised for it consistent excellence across all areas despite pupil numbers rising by almost a quarter since 2006.

In their 10-page report, the inspectors noted: "St Bartholomew's remains an outstanding school and has continued to improve since its last inspection.

"The strengths in all aspects of its work provide it with exceptionally good capacity to continue to improve."

The report noted high achievement across all the pupil groups,
including those with learning difficulties and disabilities, and those from socially disadvantaged backgrounds.

"From a very low starting point they reach broadly average standards and some gain above average standards by the end of Year 6," the report said.

"Not only do all groups of pupils make exceptionally good academic progress, their personal development, including spiritual, moral, social and cultural awareness is fostered superbly."

The inspectors said the leadership and management of the school was a "key strength" and that teamwork was another huge factor in its success.

The only concern was about the below-average standard of pupils' handwriting and the quality of the presentation of their work.
However the inspection team concluded the overall quality of teaching and learning was "outstanding as is the curriculum", the pupils loved learning there and parents were pleased with their children's progress.

In a personal letter to the youngsters after their visit, the inspectors said they were getting "first rate" teaching and praised the children's "excellent behaviour".