Great Whelnetham Primary School may have just 69 pupils, but the Ofsted inspector praised every one for their behaviour, development, learning and exceptional standards.

The overall effectiveness of the school was given a grade one – the highest mark on a scale of one to four.

In the report, the inspector said: "This is an outstandingly effective school, which provides good value for money.

"Standards are well above average, sometimes exceptionally so, and all pupils, including those with learning difficulties and/or disabilities, make very good progress through the school."

Chris Lawson, who has been headteacher since September, was also praised for her 'clear vision and direction' and staff were described as 'caring and committed'.

Just two improvements were recommended – further enhancement of the curriculum at foundation stage and devolving more management and leadership.

Mrs Lawson said the staff, parents and governors were delighted at the result. "It's obviously a report that's built on what's gone on in the past and I came in with lots of fresh ideas, but there's a good basis to build on as well," she said.

"The standards are very high here and the results are very good, but we have got lots of exciting plans for things to do in the future."

January 18, 2008