A SCHOOL in East Dorset is celebrating after being rated Excellent during a church inspection.

A Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) report said Verwood CE First School's "commitment to spiritual and learning values shine out ensuring that every child feels cared for."

Pupils of the school, which is part of the Wimborne Academy Trust, were praised in the report which said they always try their hardest in work and behaviour in calm classrooms and learning spaces.

The school in Howe Lane is larger than most other first schools.

The inspector said: "The school’s culture of inclusion, openness, learning from mistakes, forgiveness and commitment to

improve affects the whole school community."

The inspector said the school enjoys a culture of open dialogue with Wimborne Academy Trust leaders who also support Verwood’s ongoing development as a successful church school.

The report also said the religious education is well-led and given high priority in the school and concluded the school lives by its values where everybody matters.

Headteacher, Adam Parsons, said: "We are absolutely delighted to receive such positive feedback from the SIAMS inspector.

"The hard work and dedication of all our staff and students richly deserves this recognition and praise.

"We are supported by equally dedicated Trust leaders and governors and we are pleased that this was also noted by the inspectors."

CEO of Wimborne Academy Trust, Liz West, said: "This is the first of our five church schools to undergo a SIAMS inspection since the Trust was formed in 2015.

"We are thrilled that Verwood has been judged as excellent by an independent inspection – a judgement that is thoroughly deserved.

"The school is excellently led by headteacher Adam Parsons who is equally supported by a wonderful community of staff, parents and pupils."