A primary school is celebrating after receiving the highest accolade from a Christian school inspection body.

Barnham CEVC Primary School has been ranked 'outstanding' in its latest Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) report – an improvement on the 'good' ranking in its last report five years ago.

Inspectors praised the 'outstanding commitment of leaders, including governors, to the school's Christian foundation'.

'A relentless focus is shown on living out the Christian values and the reality of this shines through in every aspect of the work and decision making of the school's leadership team.

'Pupils and parents are enabled to feel safe and secure within this non-judgemental loving partnership.'

The report noted that student behaviour was good, their outcomes were high and attendance rates are on the rise while the gap between disadvantaged pupils and their peers is shrinking.

It added that pupils expressed a 'respect and interest' for learning about different religions.

Headteacher Amy Arnold said the school was delighted with the report and the school's achievement of the top ranking.

She said: 'It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of staff, the support of parents and, of course, the wonderful children of Barnham Primary School.'