A PRIMARY school is celebrating after being re-accredited for its teaching excellence.

Rush Common School in Hendred Way, Abingdon, was recognised again by the National Association for Able Children in Education’s (NACE) challenge award.

The school, which caters for more than 400 pupils, has been an academy since March 2012 and is rated outstanding by Ofsted.

Schools are re-assessed every four years and it is the second time it has received the award for excellence in provision for “more able, gifted and talented pupils”.

Headteacher Maxine Evans said it was challenging to receive the award a second time round but the school was proud of its achievement.

Assessors judged the quality of the school’s work by observing lessons, interviewing the pupils, teachers, parents and governors and by looking at the pupils’ work.

Assessors, who spent a day in the school, said they were impressed by strong leadership and management of provision and the good support and challenge provided by the directors.

Headteacher Maxine Evans said: “I am delighted that the ongoing work of the staff, children and directors to ensure all children meet their potential, has been acknowledged through this re-accreditation process.

“We are especially pleased that our efforts to develop independent learners with high levels of enquiry and thinking skills has been highlighted as an area of great strength, as this will ensure our children go on to be successful at secondary school and beyond.

“Our continued involvement with the Challenge Award has significantly enhanced the quality of learning experiences for all our children. We are extremely proud that our commitment to provide the very best education for our children has been recognised.”

NACE chief executive Rowena Gaston said: “Rush Common has worked hard to win the NACE challenge award re-accreditation status. It has shown itself to be committed to developing a school where all pupils are challenged to be the best they can be.

“The more able and talented children are challenged and this helps the other learners to see what can be achieved.”