PUPILS at a Darwen primary school told Ofsted inspectors there was only one thing that their school could do better -- have longer playtimes.

St Edward's RC Primary School, Darwen, was inspected by the education watchdog in December and told that the school was good across the board.

Headteacher Alyson Grundy was praised for her "dedication and inspiration" with a strong vision for the school's future.

The only recommendation was to look into ways to create more play space for children and enhancing library facilities.

"We were delighted with the findings of the report which reflect the hard work, enthusiasm and commitment of everyone associated with the school, from staff and governors to children and their families," said the head.

"We have worked hard to address all the areas for improvement raised in our last report in 2001 and the inspectors found only one minor area for improvement this time relating to enhancing the library area.

"That is a massive achievement and I am delighted with the report."

Margaret Leatham, the chairman of governors, said: "The school and the governors are absolutely delighted with the findings of the recent Ofsted inspection.

"Praise must go to the headteacher and the staff for their professional dedication and their tremendous hard work in steering the school.

"To achieve these excellent results is fantastic news for the whole school and parish community."

Coun Mahfooz Hussain, executive member for education and lifelong learning congratulated the 253-pupil school, in Blackburn Road, Darwen, on achieving such a good Ofsted report.

"It is full of praise for teachers' knowledge of their subjects, their enthusiasm, their hard work in planning lessons, setting targets and making sure children achieve, the leadership and management of the school and the children

themselves"