OUR school is wonderful – and that’s official!

Delighted pupils and staff at Hazel Wood Infant School are celebrating being given top marks by Ofsted.

Inspectors graded the Totton school as “outstanding”, giving it the best possible score in virtually every category.

Their glowing report included praise for teaching, leadership, behaviour and the curriculum.

Reporting inspector Laurie Lewin said the feedback he had from parents and carers of youngsters at the 237-pupil school, which has this month also celebrated its 21st anniversary by planting a time capsule in the grounds, had been overwhelmingly positive.

He said: “Typical of their comments received were: ‘I cannot speak highly enough about the school. Communication is fantastic.

It’s a school where every child really does matter’.

“Inspectors agreed with these comments. Lessons are interesting and incorporate a wide range of practical activities to boost pupils’ learning.

“There is a very lively and positive working atmosphere throughout the school.

“The school’s excellent curriculum is matched very well to pupils’ interests and needs and ensures pupils experience a genuine sense of awe and wonder as they discover and explore new activities and ideas.

“Pupils like their school very much.

“Pupils’ behaviour is good, and sometimes exemplary, and they show an excellent level of moral and social awareness.

“All staff feel highly valued and are fully involved in all aspects of the school’s development. New and innovative ideas are constantly pursued to sustain improvement programmes.

“Excellent communication with parents and carers ensures they are fully involved in supporting their children’s learning.”

Head teacher Cathy Davies said: “I totally believe that it is the strength of our parent partnership, the outstanding quality of all our teachers, support staff and governors, combined with our shared vision to develop Hazel Wood as a school to be proud of, which has led to this positive outcome.

“We are now looking forward to continuing to build upon this excellent outcome.”

Chairman of governors Paul Wright said: “It is a pleasure to have been part of what is a massive success for the team that is Hazel Wood Infant School.

“The continuing challenge will be to collaborate with other schools, share outstanding practice and ensure that every pupil that comes to Hazel Wood is provided with the very best opportunities for learning and we will rise to this.”