A ‘CARING’ first school in Bromsgrove has been praised by Ofsted for its ‘broad and ambitious curriculum’.

Dodford First School on Fockbury Road was inspected by the education watchdog for two days in May and was judged to be ‘good’ in all areas inspected.

The report, which was published on June 23 notes: “Pupils very much enjoy their learning at Dodford First School. Staff know them as individuals in this small community.

“This helps staff to care for them and to make sure they learn well.

“Leaders have high expectations for pupils’ behaviour. From the start, pupils settle into a calm and orderly classroom routine.

“They are keen to succeed, work hard and collaborate well with each other. Disruption to learning is rare.

“Pupils enjoy warm relationships with staff. Staff provide a high quality of pastoral care and take effective steps to promote pupils’ mental health.

“Pupils know that there are always adults to talk to, and that any bullying will be resolved straight away. Pupils feel safe and play happily at social times.”

Headteacher Lisa Parkes said she is ‘very proud of the small team of staff at the school who are relentless in their efforts to provide children with the best education and memories of first school in a safe and nurturing environment.’