The staff and children at Pilton Bluecoat Academy were joined by a special guest at this morning’s assembly.  Rev Mark Butchers, Archdeacon of Barnstaple visited the school to present them with their much anticipated certificate after their “Excellent” Church of England Inspection last term.

This achievement is the highest rating that a school can achieve from its Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS), which is carried out in all Church of England Schools in a similar way to OFSTED.

Reverend Mark used six volunteer actors in a re-enactment of the story of Zacchaeus, the tax Inspector in Jericho, who, with Jesus’ guidance gave back to the poor people of the city. The story of Zacchaeus resonates with Pilton Bluecoat Academy’s vision of “Life, Love and Learning to the Full”.

Inspectors who visited the school praised many aspects of school life at Pilton Bluecoat Academy, recognising that “Leaders are passionate about enabling vulnerable pupils to flourish. They make bold decisions to give pupils a new start, raising their belief in their own talents…. The vision strongly promotes a culture where everyone is special. Staff model a high degree of dignity and respect in their relationships with pupils and parents. This has created a rich caring family where all work well together”

CEO of TEAM Multi Academy Trust, Rhian Nicholas said, “To be recognised as an excellent Church of England school is testament to the dedication and commitment by staff and children to our Christian ethos. I am very proud that the report acknowledges that ‘Life, Love and Learning to the Full’ is at the heart of everything we do as a school.