PROUD pupils are celebrating after an infant school joined the junior school as an outstanding place to learn.

Quilters Infant School in Billericay was rated as outstanding following an Ofsted inspection.

It marks double success for headteacher Michael Wade following a similarly successful inspection in 2017.

A report has just been released, following an inspection last month, which rates several aspects as outstanding.

These include the effectiveness of leadership and management, the quality of teaching, learning and assessment.

Also rated as outstanding after the inspection was personal development, behaviour and welfare, outcomes for pupils and early years provision.

The school was previously rates as good.

Mr Wade said: “We found out on the second day of the inspection but we had to wait to tell everyone.

“We wanted to share our success but we were sworn to secrecy, which was hard.

“It’s like winning the FA cup final and getting a trophy three weeks later.

“I was so pleased when I found out and was quite tearful if I’m honest, not good for my street cred.

“My dad passed away this year so it’s been a difficult one for me personally.

“I wanted to speak to my dad and tell him the news.

“I am very proud and pleased at the result. Our staff work incredibly hard and we have an excellent team who really make my job easy.

“I was thrilled for them and was chuffed to bits for the children. They deserve an accolade for their work.”

Michael has been a headteacher at Quilters Junior School for seven years and at Quilters Junior School for one year and a term.

He said: “We know we’re working well and confident what we’re doing is right, but there is always a little voice in my head worrying if I have forgot anything.

“When you put your heart and soul into something like we have, you’re desperate to get what everyone deserves.

“The kids are exemplary.

“The staff are dedicated and hardworking so you don’t want to let people down.

“We’re a family here.

“It’s nice to have your efforts to provide a unique service that you can’t get anywhere else recognised and that’s what we do at Quilter’s.”

The school has introduced seven hero capes for quality, perseverance, proactivity, concentration, independence, team work and bravery.