Pamphill Church of England First School, which dates from the 17 century, has been rated ‘good’ and praised for being ‘welcoming and inclusive’ by SIAMS, the body that grades church schools.

One parent quoted described Pamphill as ‘a happy school with happy children’.

It is part of Wimborne Academy Trust (WAT) and the report noted its ‘recent rapid development’ since joining the trust in 2020.

The report also said: “Pupils are proud of living out the school’s vision through its values as they contribute to their school and wider community.”

It states that headteacher Mike Wheeler and the trust committee have ‘worked tirelessly to establish an environment where pupils and adults flourish’.

Mike said: “The report is a testament to the hard work put in by the staff, but also by the children and their parents.

“It identified that our Christian values have driven the school’s rapid development and notes that we are heavily over-subscribed.

“The report says we make the most of our amazing rural setting, and vulnerable pupils and those with learning needs are well supported.

“Obviously we are pleased that our efforts have been recognised, but we won’t rest on our laurels.

“There are areas that we still need to work on, and these are already being addressed.”

The Bishop of Salisbury Stephen Lake who visited the school said: “This is a unique school in a rural setting and it’s great to see its successful inspection report.

“I was delighted to meet so many happy children who clearly belong to a small school which has a real family feel.”

Liz West, chief executive of WAT, said: “Pamphill joined the trust in 2020, and since then improvements have been significant.

“Therefore, we were happy that this was acknowledged during the most recent inspection.

“Additionally, Pamphill has upgraded its buildings and facilities, adding an all-weather pitch that was opened by former Premier League player Sylvain Distin.

This is the most recent positive report of our schools, and we will continue to provide excellent all-round education from first school through to sixth form.”