A PRIMARY school with just 34 pupils has been rated outstanding in a recent inspection.

Hovingham Primary School was praised in a report from the Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS), which focuses on the effect that the Christian ethos has on the children who attend it.

In a report the inspector, Jane Kent, said: “Christian values in action result in excellent relationships, behaviour and attitudes to work that enable all pupils to develop academically and socially.”

“The distinctiveness and effectiveness of Hovingham Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School as a Church of England school are outstanding

She added:”There is clear demonstration of the school’s values in all areas of school life and especially in relationships and attitudes.

“The school’s distinctive Christian character and its core values are placed at the heart of its collective and united drive for rapid improvement, and, as a result, children make good progress and achieve well.

Ms Kent said: “Value and care are given to the viewpoints and needs of all members of the school and local community. Diversity and difference are met with friendship and respect.

She added: “The challenges and limitations of a small school are embraced positively. The physical and emotional learning environments are highly effective and unequivocal in their demonstration and promotion the school’s distinctive Christian character.”

Hovingham Primary School was federated with St Hilda’s in Ampleforth in April 2015.

Headteacher James Pynn said: “I am delighted with the report which acknowledges the hard work of everyone connected with the school.”