A Banbury primary school has seen its early years provision rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted after receiving a new style of report.

Hardwick Primary was inspected under the new style, which does not give the school a one-word grade but instead rates different sections of the school.

As well as high praise for its early years provision, the behaviour and attitudes of its pupils were also rated 'outstanding'.

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It was rated good for education quality, personal development, and leadership and management.

Headteacher Charlotte Taylor, who joined Hardwick Primary in the summer, said: "We are delighted to share the fantastic news of our recent Ofsted inspection, and particularly thrilled to have received outstanding judgements for our early years and behaviour and attitudes.

"This achievement highlights the dedication and hard work of our entire school community, and we are proud of Hardwick’s achievements."

The report also said children enjoy attending the 228-pupil school, and they benefit from the school’s "high ambitions and expectations".

It said: "The school is a happy place to be. Pupils love attending and are eager to learn.

"Pupils have warm, mutually respectful relationships with everyone in the school.

"Staff help pupils to recognise their emotions so they can manage them well. Pupils are considerate and calm.

"Social times are harmonious because pupils take care of each other and their environment."

The school was also praised for the "exceptional" behaviour of its children, with Ofsted noting teachers "take every opportunity to explore with pupils the impact of their behaviour on themselves and others".

Pupils were found to "show extremely positive attitudes to learning and excellent conduct," as well as "high levels of self-awareness" and a "real desire" to focus on their learning.

Ms Taylor added: "I am so proud of our pupils, whose enthusiasm and positive behaviour contribute greatly to making Hardwick an exceptional place to learn.

"We are grateful for the support of the GLF Trust, which plays a vital role in our ongoing success, as well as the support we receive from our parents, families, and the wider community."

The report commended the school for focusing on its children as individuals, recognising it "promotes pupils' character, individuality, and their personal development".

It also highlighted the range of clubs and groups where pupils can be part of the leadership scheme, which gives them an understanding of how democracy works.

It added: "Pupils at Hardwick School demonstrate the values of ‘aim high, be safe, be kind, inspire others, and have pride'’.

"These values drive decision-making in all areas of the school. Pupils do not give up when they learn new things or encounter challenges."