Nelson Muslim School Ranked 'Outstanding'

A Muslim Primary School that has only been open four years has been rated ‘outstanding’ by inspectors.

Al-Ikhlaas Primary School, in Norfolk Street, Nelson, received the glowing report from the Bridge Schools Inspectorate, who are appointed by the Government to inspect schools belonging to the Christian Schools’ Trust and the Association of Muslim Schools.

Inspectors said the mixed-faith school coverage of ‘both the Islamic and secular curriculum is imaginatively and methodically planned across all key stages’.

Imran Ashraf, chair of governors at the school, said: “I would like to thank and congratulate all the staff, parents, pupils and fellow governors for all the hard work, commitment and dedication that has led Al-Ikhlaas to become an outstanding school in such a short space of time.”

Meg Buckingham, lead inspector, said: “Al Ikhlaas meets its ambitious aims very well in providing an outstanding quality of education across the age range within a safe and caring environment, grounded in Islamic values.

“From the Early Year Foundation Stage (EYFS) upwards, the school provides excellent care for pupils.

“The good and often outstanding teaching across the school contributes to pupils’ high achievements over time.”

Mrs Buckingham also said the behaviour of the school’s 89 pupils was ‘excellent’ and that ‘the quality of the pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is outstanding’.

The curriculum consists of Arabic, Quran, Islamic studies and the secular subjects.

The school’s website says that ‘everything that takes place in the school is aimed at preparing our pupils to live as righteous, educated Muslims.’ The school, which teaches pupils aged four to 11, underwent its first inspection in 2011, when it was rated as ‘good’.