A PRESTON primary school started the summer holidays with a celebration after receiving the thumbs-up from inspectors.

At its last inspection St Matthew's CE Primary School, in New Hall Lane, was told certain standards would have to be raised, and special measures were imposed by OFSTED inspectors to ensure things were brought up to scratch.

Since then, the school has made significant improvements.

Now, following the most recent inspection, the special measures status has been lifted by Her Majesty's Inspectors, giving staff and pupils a reason to end the year on a high note.

Associate headteacher Lesley Frearson said: "I am extremely pleased the school has successfully come out of special measures.

"This is a tribute to all the hard work of the staff and governors and also the great support we have received from the local education authority and the Diocesan Authority."

When inspectors visited the school, they found the teachers had good relationships with pupils and made learning fun and exciting.

It added that children responded well in lesson and took pride in their work, while their behaviour was good.

The school itself was described as having a calm, relaxed and purposeful atmosphere, while the management and leadership of the school had been strengthened since the last inspection.

Lesley added: "I am confident that the school will continue to go from strength to strength in the coming months."

The full report will be published in September.

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