CHILDREN and their teachers are celebrating after inspectors lavished a Darlington school with praise.

Pupils at S Teresa’s RC primary school have exemplary behaviour, according to a recent diocesan inspection.

Inspectors praised the children and judged the ‘Catholic life’ of the school to be outstanding.

Their report said: “There is a very tangible sense of family and community in all aspects of school life which is evident in the quality of relationships that exist between all.”

The school was also inspected by Ofsted in January, with their report describing it as a welcoming, friendly and inclusive school.

Ofsted inspectors also highlighted achievement in reading and phonics, going on to say pupils’ attainment in mathematics had been above the national average for three years.

It said: “All in the school have high expectations for pupil’s academic and personal development.”

The school’s headteacher, Paula Strachan, said the St Teresa’s family found much to celebrate in the reports.

She said: “We are delighted with both reports.

“The sheer dedication of all of us ensures that our children really are encouraged to be the best that they can be.

“We are a very diverse community and I am particularly pleased that our efforts in ensuring that pupils’ social and emotional needs are met were highlighted in the reports.”

St Teresa's RC is based on Harris Street in Darlington.

Taking their inspiration from the words of St Teresa of Lisieux, 'Let us do the little things well today', the school's mission statement encourages pupils to value themselves and one another, reach out to others, accept and forgive and worship together.

For more information about the school or to read reports, visit stteresasprimary.org.uk.