Kedington Primary Academy is celebrating after earning a top award recognising their inclusive approach and being described as a “lively, happy school” by inspectors from the IQM Inclusive School Award.

Areas for praise included a calm and purposeful environment where children “enjoy their experiences and show great respect for each other”.

Head of school Hayley Ahlquist said: “We are delighted that everything we recognise and love about Kedington Primary Academy was backed up in this report.

“We are proud to be an inclusive school and everyone plays a part in this – from pupils to staff, families to governors and our wider school community.

“We thank them all for their hard work and commitment and for helping make Kedington Primary Academy such a special school.”

Following a inspection, which included interviews with staff, pupils and parents, the school was highly praised in the subsequent report and IQM award, which also suggested Kedington could work towards Centre of Excellence status.

The strong leadership and a commitment to inclusion and improving the opportunities for all children were singled out alongside the curriculum and spiritual, moral, social and cultural education.

The report said: “All staff have high expectations of children and offer a caring, supportive and encouraging environment where positive relationships are crucial to the progress of all the children.

“There is a strong emphasis on kindness and good manners and this was evident whenever the children were asked a question or when they moved around the school.

“Excellent work is carried out with families, pupils and the community generally to ensure that children are cared for and valued.”