STAFF and pupils at a local primary school are celebrating after chalking up top marks with the government's standards in education body Ofsted.

Inspectors found Brindle Gregson Lane Primary School, in Bournes Row, Hoghton, to be a good and improving school with more strengths than weaknesses.

Following a school inspection in May, the Ofsted team reported that the level of pupil attainment at the end of Year 2 was well above the national average.

Children made good progress from reception to Year 2 including pupils with special educational needs.

While they found the school's levels of attainment not high enough, with the rates of progress too slow during Years 3 to 6, inspectors highlighted the provision of support and guidance for pupils as very high.

They praised staff for establishing excellent relationships with parents and found that children took part in a wide range of extra-curricular activities.

While the literacy hour was found to be effectively implemented, inspectors found appropriate work was rarely provided for pupils capable of the highest attainment, with work in some subjects too shallow.

They agreed with some parents that there was some under-achievement in Years 3 to 6, but said there were signs of improvement.

However, they disagreed that some parents did not know well enough the rates of their children's progress and reported that the school was making every effort to inform parents of their children's progress.

Headteacher Vivienne Clark said: "The outcome of the inspection is a reflection of the teamwork that exists within our school.

"I would like to thank the staff, governors, pupils and parents for their wonderful support. Together we can continue to move the school forward for the benefit of all our pupils."

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