The future is bright thanks to the education being provided at a Westhoughton primary school.

For not only is St Thomas CE Primary School, Chequerbent, providing a first class academic education, it is teaching children how they can make a difference to the world, now and in the future.

The school was graded good by Ofsted, the Government's education watchdog.

Inspectors reported: "Pupils are proud to be members of the school community. They have positive attitudes to their learning.

"Pupils have a deep sense of social justice. They care about the environment. For example, they recently developed a new waste-paper recycling system for the school."

Inspectors added: "Pupils are kind-hearted and responsible citizens. They regularly support good causes.Pupils like to air their views on how to make the school better. For example, members of the school

council are currently working with leaders to improve the school grounds and are utilising a decommissioned bus to support the creation of a nature sanctuary."

Children achieve well in their subjects, because they 'know staff have high expectations of their behaviour and achievement'.

Inspectors added: "The array of extra-curricular opportunities available mean that all pupils can develop their talents and pursue their interests.

Inspectors added: "Leaders are determined that pupils become active citizens and confident readers. Leaders are clear about the important knowledge and skills that they want pupils, and children in the early years, to know and remember. As a result, pupils achieve well."

Effective systems are in place that help staff to quickly identify pupils with special educational needs and ensure pupils with additional needs achieve well in a range of subjects. Lessons are rarely disrupted by poor behaviour, which means that pupils across the school, including children in the nursery and reception classes, can learn effectively, stated inspectors

Parents are said to be highly positive about the school.

"Typically, they said that staff are friendly and approachable. They also said that their children are happy, safe and progress well," Ofsted reported.

Inspectors added: Staff believe that leaders and governors are mindful of their well-being, mental health and workload. They describe the school as having an ‘open and caring culture’. Staff, including

those new to teaching, appreciate the training and support they receive from senior leaders. They said that this helps them to deliver the curriculum well."