A PRIMARY school in Taunton is celebrating after being judged ‘outstanding’ by church inspectors.

Bishop Henderson Church of England Primary School was praised for its ‘strong sense of community’ and an ‘atmosphere where learning and achievement are a natural part of life in all its fullness’.

SIAMS inspector the Rev Jeremy Hellier said the school’s strapline, ‘learning together for life in all its fullness’, which is based on a Bible passage (John 10:10), ‘drives high levels of achievement’.

He said the school’s chaplain, the Rev Jenny Jeffery, was invaluable in sustaining its Christian values.

Headteacher Ed Gregory said he was pleased Bishop Henderson had retained the ‘outstanding’ grade it achieved at its last inspection in 2012.

“I am delighted to share and celebrate this wonderful acknowledgement of our church school’s success,” he said.

“It reflects the amazing school community that we have. Our children, staff, chaplain, governors, families and local clergy all contributed positively to the inspection, our first under this more rigorous framework. We truly are ‘learning together for life in all its fullness.’”

The report makes clear that not all pupils are Christian, but commends ‘a spirit of inclusivity’ where other beliefs are respected.

One non-Christian pupil told the inspector: “Although I’m not religious I understand it’s important not to disrespect others.”