THE news, unlike the weather, is bright in Okehampton this week after the town's primary school received a glowing summary in a recent report. A review of the school was conducted by Investors in People who stated that 'there were a considerable number of strengths found during the visit, aligned to the indicators of the Investors in People standard'. Investors in People is the national standard which sets out a level of good practice for the training and development of people. When used in schools, it provides a coherent framework for the professional development of staff, performance management and assessing pupil and school achievement. Okehampton Primary School first became recognised as an Investor in people in November 2004 and late last year, it took its first review against the revised Investors in People standard. The report said: 'It quickly became clear that the school had worked very hard to create a positive learning environment for the children and that everyone was encouraged to support this position, whatever role they did. 'The school is, without doubt, committed to developing all of its people, with training and development available to teaching and support staff. 'A noted strength is the support for staff development from senior management which was found to be total. Clearly, all staff have a common vision. 'It is clear that the school is fully committed and actively encourages the inclusion of all staff in everything that it does. The majority of staff considered that, even though they worked in a busy and often demanding environment, they were encouraged as individuals to maintain a positive, professional and individually supportive approach in all that they did. The inspectors found that the school continued to be outward looking, encouraging partnerships and liaisons with other learning establishments who had similar aspirations. 'Senior management is recognised as not only being forward looking but continually challenging the quality of service which it provides,' said the inspectors. The report concluded that Okehampton Primary School has strong links with the community and a close working relationship with Okehampton College. Headmaster Brian Cunningham said: 'We are delighted to be recognised as an Investor in People against the revised standards. 'Achieving this standard recognises the importance placed by the school on developing the knowledge and skills of its large team of teaching and support staff who are all committed to providing the best for the children in their care.' The primary school is also pleased to announce the appointment of four new staff members, a rare event for January. A warm welcome is extended to Wendy Gibb, who will teach reception, Caroline Morgan, Year 2, Marie-Claire Gibbs, Year 3/4, and Matthew Avery teaching Year 5.
