“WE have the children’s best interests at heart and we have high expectations – that’s why we’re outstanding.”

So says head teacher Juliet Muir who has led Bovington Primary to its third consecutive Outstanding rating from government inspectors.

Few schools can boast such an achievement but no one was particularly surprised at the small, rural primary school.

They have come to expect high standards with achievement of pupils, quality of teaching, behaviour and safety of pupils and leadership and management all receiving the highest grade possible.

There are just 244 pupils at the Holt Road school, with some mixed year groups and a very high turnover of students because two thirds come from Army families constantly on the move.

But they don’t see the constant movement as a barrier, saying it gives students the opportunity to welcome new members and the staff the chance to do their best to tailor to their individual needs.

Ofsted agreed and their report said: “New pupils are not only nurtured extremely well by all staff but they also benefit from the warm welcome and supportive care of their classmates and so feel very safe.”

The school recently converted to a primary after being a first school for many years. From now on, leavers will go to secondary school rather middle.

Pupils were heavily involved in the design of their smart new purple and grey uniform, which was unveiled during a catwalk event.

Bovington Primary holds a clutch of awards including the Active Mark, Healthy Schools Award, Rights Respecting School and the prestigious Eco-Schools Green Flag.

Mrs Muir has been head for 13 years and has seen the school grow from just 145 pupils when she started. Building work is currently underway to accommodate even more youngsters from next September.

When asked why she thinks the school is so successful, she said: “It is a team effort. I couldn’t do it without the dedication and hard work of the teachers who are outstanding.

“We all find it a really nice place to come to every day.”

Latest report carried out in July 2012

Grade: Outstanding

“All groups of pupils make rapid progress in all years, resulting in above average expected levels of attainment.  The tracking and monitoring of pupils’ progress are exemplary.  Teaching is outstanding.  Behaviour and safety in the school are outstanding.”

Factfile

Bovington Primary School, Holt Road, Bovington, Wareham, BH20 6LE
01929 462744
Number of students: 244
Age range: 4-11
Head teacher: Juliet Muir