Ofsted inspectors were full of praise for an 'inspirational' school.

Adlington Primary School has been rated 'outstanding' across all key areas in its latest Ofsted report.

The school, part of the Halliard Trust, was praised for its 'highly ambitious' curriculum as well as its leadership, staff training and pupil behaviour.

Headteacher Steph Swinson said: "We are delighted to have maintained our outstanding ratings from Ofsted.

"We are proud of the many strengths of our school that the Ofsted report has highlighted.

"A particular highlight was that our pupils spoke enthusiastically about the school being a welcoming place, where they can be themselves and are treated as individuals.

"This recognition is a superb testament to the collective effort and dedication of our staff, pupils, parents, governors and the Halliard Trust to ensure that we provide the very best education for every child."

Adlington Primary on Brookledge Lane (Credit: Google Maps)

As of September 2024, schools are no longer awarded overall effectiveness grades.

Inspectors Sue Dymond and Juliet Francis visited Adlington Primary over December 17 and 18.

In their report, they say that pupils are 'proud to be part of this small and nurturing school'.

"Pupils are happy and feel safe, and they enjoy spending time with friends of all ages across the school," the report adds.

"They behave extremely well during lessons and at social times.

"Pupils spoke enthusiastically about the school being a welcoming place where they can be themselves and are treated as individuals."

The report continues, highlighting the 'vast array' of extracurricular opportunities available as well as the staff's ability to deliver the curriculum 'in a way that ignites pupils' curiosity and builds a thirst for learning.'

"Staff, members of the local governing body and trustees are incredibly proud to be a part of this inspirational school," the report continues.

"Everyone associated with the school is invested in a common purpose to provide a high-quality, ambitious education for pupils."

Pupils say the school is 'a welcoming place where they can be themselves' (Credit: Adlington Primary School)

Jeremy Spencer, CEO of Halliard Trust, was delighted with the report.

He said: "We are absolutely thrilled with this outcome. It's fantastic to see the hard work of Steph Swinson, her team, and the entire Halliard Trust being recognised.

"Our goal is for all Halliard Trust schools to strive for excellence, and Adlington has certainly demonstrated that it is operating at 'the level of the best.'

"Outstanding grades in small schools are becoming increasingly rare, making this achievement even more special. Adlington Primary School now stands as one of the highest-performing schools in Cheshire and beyond."

He added: "It was particularly heartening to see Ofsted highlight the school's 'excellent work to improve pupils' attitudes to themselves, each other, and their school,' as well as pupils' 'rich bodies of knowledge across different subjects.'

"This is a direct reflection of the incredible dedication and passion of the staff, not just at Adlington but across all of our Halliard Trust schools.

"Adlington Primary is a wonderful, rural school in a stunning location, supported by an exceptional team of staff and highly engaged parents. We couldn't be prouder of this achievement."

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