A Solihull school has been praised for making sure children and staff 'feel as if they belong' by a government watchdog following a recent inspection.

Ofsted praised Sharmans Cross Junior School in a number of key areas, but also found room for improvement in others.

Published in June, the report praised the school on pupil attendance, behaviour and wellbeing, with Ofsted inspectors recognising the positive impact of changes made by its new leadership team.

Sharmans Cross was assessed under Ofsted's new report card system, which judges schools across a range of areas rather than giving a single overall rating.

The school met the 'expected standard' in attendance and behaviour, leadership and governance, and personal development and wellbeing.

Inspectors highlighted the work leaders have done to strengthen safeguarding, improve behaviour and create a positive environment for pupils.

The report said: "Pupils are happy at Sharmans Cross Junior School.

"They recognise the positive recent changes to their school. At the start of each day, staff welcome pupils, parents and carers, embracing the school's warm and welcoming nature.

"Pupils and staff feel as if they all belong in the Sharmans Cross family. Pupils know who to go to if they have a worry.

"They trust staff to sort problems out. Pastoral support for pupils and their families is effective and valued highly by parents. Pupils attend well and feel safe at school.

"Staff support pupils to reflect on their emotional wellbeing, and understand their feelings. This helps pupils to develop empathy and tolerance for others.

"As a result, bullying is rare and pupils know that adults would deal with this well."

Inspectors also praised the school's 'PRIDE' values, which help shape pupils' behaviour and promote respectful relationships.

Pupils were also recognised for benefiting from a range of clubs, trips and leadership opportunities, helping them build confidence, resilience and new skills.

Sharmans Cross, which was rated 'good' under the previous Ofsted rating system, was given three areas to develop.

'Needs attention' ratings were given to achievement, curriculum and teaching, and inclusion.

The report added: "Leaders recognise that there is more to do to ensure that teaching consistently supports pupils' learning across the school.

"Teachers do not routinely adapt their teaching to ensure all pupils have the work they need. Most pupils complete the same activities.

"This means that the curriculum does not meet the needs of different pupils, including those who have special educational needs and/or disabilities, or those who are ready to move on to more challenging work."

Sharmans Cross Junior School has been contacted for comment.

Click to view the full Ofsted report here.