STAFF and pupils at Ham Dingle Primary Academy, Stourbridge, have celebrated successes and improvements after the school was rated ‘good’ by Ofsted in its first inspection as an academy.

Inspectors described the school, which became an academy and part of United Learning Trust in 2019, as a “happy school” which has worked hard to improve the quality of education it provides.

Prior to gaining academy status, the Old Ham Lane school was given a ‘requires improvement’ rating when inspectors last visited in 2018.

Darran Ellison-Lee, director of primary education at United Learning, said of the improvements and the vote of confidence from Ofsted: “This is a highly encouraging outcome and reflects the significant amount of progress that has been made in recent years.

"It shows the academy is firmly established on the right path for raising standards even further and we look forward to continuing to support the school as it seeks to give pupils the very best school experience.”

Ofsted’s report described staff as “dedicated” and praised pupils for their politeness, pride in their learning and “desire to do well”.

Headteacher Andrew Tilley said: “It is fantastic to see the dedication and hard work of our staff team recognised by the inspectors in driving continuous improvement.

“Equally I am very pleased to see such strong praise of our pupils – they are a credit to the school.”