A 'TIGHT knit' school which pupils are proud to attend has been given a positive inspection.

The River School, situated off Droitwich Road, Worcester, met all the requirements set out in the inspection - which took place from January 25 to 27.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) report confirmed pupils' strong performance across the school, with headteacher Adrian Parsonage "delighted" by the positive outcome of the report.

The River School is a Christian, independent day school for pupils from aged two to 16 years that was founded in 1985.

The school was found to be successful in promoting its aims of creating a supportive Christian community of love and respect, while pupils felt happy and safe in school and develop the confidence to learn effectively.

Pupils of all ages, including those with special educational needs, were found to make good progress in relation to their starting points.

But while the school provides an extra-curricular programme, the range of activities was determined to be too narrow, meaning pupils did not have the opportunity to fully discover their talents and interests.

In the early years, teachers ensured that children learn effectively through creative play that links to development of their communication, numeracy and literacy skills.

Almost all children in the early years achieved well to reach a good level of development.

Teachers had the appropriate knowledge and skills to fulfil their roles, but the routine monitoring of risks around the school site wasn't sufficiently systematic or rigorous.

Pupils of all ages behaved extremely well in and out of lessons and enjoy positive relationships with one another.

Governors and teachers provided an extensive programme of personal, social and health education that covered all the required areas and was in line with the school's aim of encouraging respect for all people.

There was a general positive culture with pupils proud to be a part of such a tight-knit school.

“We are delighted with the report that reflects the commitment and professionalism of the staff, the support of parents and the excellent character of the pupils," said Mr Parsonage.

"We are particularly proud of our pupils, their approach to their academic studies and their adoption of Christian values.

"We are already addressing the two recommendations from the report: a tightening of Health and Safety protocols and increasing extra-curricular activities.

"To sum up, we are proud of our school community and excited about the future for us as a growing school.”