A WESTCLIFF primary school and nursery have been rating “outstanding” by the education watchdog.

Barons Court Primary School and Nursery, based in Avenue Road has excelled in every area according to Ofsted.

The school, which was formerly an infant school, was previously rated as “good” in 2012.

It has since transformed into a full primary school in 2014 and secured the “outstanding” rating in all areas.

Staff, pupils and governors are absolutely delighted. And the report highlighted how the headteacher and deputy headteacher provided outstanding leadership and how their vision and values underpinned the work of the school.

Julia Jones, headteacher at the school, says: “We are extremely pleased that this inspection has recognised our many strengths.

“I am delighted that we have been recognised as a happy and caring school, providing opportunities for all of our pupils to thrive.

“Our children’s wonderful attitudes to learning were identified throughout the report as was the hard work and commitment of our all of our staff and governors.”

Inspectors particularly noted that pupils’ attitudes to their learning and behaviour are exceptional and that they try hard, persevere and enjoy their learning.

The quality of teaching and learning over time was also highlighted as being consistently good, often outstanding. Teachers plan learning that is highly stimulating and ignites pupils’ curiosity.

The reports states that right from the youngest child in the nursery, pupils demonstrate a keen enthusiasm for learning.

They persevere with activities until they succeed and are very proud of their results.

Brin Martin, director of learning at Southend Council, was delighted by the news.

He said: “My sincere congratulations to everyone involved.

“This is one of the best reports I have ever read in a number of years involved in education.

“This is a glowing report that is very well deserved and a credit to all the staff, pupils, governors and parents that have worked hard together to make this happen.

“The comments in the report make for very positive reading across the board, and whilst it is great to see teaching and leadership is first rate, it is also great to read how laughter and friendship are so evident across the school and nursery.”

Inspectors also found that friendships and laughter were very evident during the inspection and said this is reflective of the happy, caring ethos that is prevalent in the school. The behaviour of pupils was found to be outstanding, and the report notes they are polite and well-mannered.