CHILDREN and staff at a village school in East Dorset have been celebrating an outstanding Ofsted report and the opening of a new classroom.

Pupils, parents and teachers at Witchampton First School gathered at their new classroom for Key Stage 1 children for an official opening performed by the High Sheriff of Dorset, Victoria McDonaugh. Mrs McDonaugh’s visit came just weeks after one made by Ofsted inspectors, who left impressed by what they had seen.

Writing in an official report, lead inspector Deborah Zachary praised the school’s “first class leadership” and described the personal development of pupils as “exceptional”.

Head teacher Maureen Bowers said she was delighted by the report, adding that it reflected the commitment to improvement by governors, parents, staff and children.