A PRESTON primary school has been taken out of 'special measures' following a two day progress check by Ofsted inspectors.

The results of the June inspection, released this month, found Fishwick Primary School, Downing Street, Preston, now provides an acceptable standard of education for its pupils.

The report said the school had made a 'steady improvement' in English, maths and science, and had 'strengths' in art, music and PE.

The school had been placed under special measures for a year following an inspection in March 1999.

Under the School Inspection Act 1996, a school is placed under special measures because it is 'failing or likely to fail to give its pupils an acceptable standard of education'.

These failures are judged on attainment, pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development, the quality of education and the management of the school.

The school is instructed to take measures in leadership, effective management, develop an action plan, foster committed teachers, make good communications with parents and tackle poor behaviour.

Earlier this week, county councillor Alan Whittaker, cabinet member for education and young people, visited the school to congratulate acting headteacher Rebecca Coxon, her staff and pupils, on the progress the school has made.

And Coun Whittaker discussed future plans to ensure the school continues to improve with Mrs Coxon and chairman of governors, county councillor Vali Patel.

Coun Whittaker said: "I want to thank Rebecca and her team for the tremendous efforts they are making to improve the school.

"Ofsted has an important role to play, and we always take notice and act swiftly and effectively to address problems when they are highlighted. But it is just as important to celebrate successes and draw attention to good news stories like Fishwick Primary School."

Mrs Coxon said: "We are working hard to build on the progress that the inspection team noted the last time they visited the school and it will be great to receive the recognition and encouragement that everyone deserves."