STAFF and students at North Somercotes CofE Primary School are celebrating after their improvements were recognised by Ofsted.

Following a report in March, when the Warren Road school was given a notice to improve, the government inspectors have now said it is making "good progress" in its latest monitoring report.

As reported, in issuing the school with its notice to improve – which meant that inspectors would make further visits to the school until it improved – Ofsted inspector Kenneth Thomas originally commented that it required "significant improvement".

However, following a visit from inspector Jeremy Spencer in November, the school's "good progress" has now been recognised.

In his report, Mr Spencer wrote: "Since the last inspection, there have been some significant staff changes.

"These have included the appointment of a new headteacher in April and the appointment of a new deputy headteacher in September.

"As a result of the inspection (in March), the school was asked to address the most important areas for improvement.

"Having considered all the evidence, I am of the opinion that at this time the school is making good progress in addressing the issues for improvement and in raising the pupils' achievement.

"Pupils' attainment in reading, writing and mathematics is rising.

"Different groups of pupils, including those known to be eligible for free school meals and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, are making good and improved progress in all year groups, particularly in mathematics."

Mr Spencer also reserved praise for the school's "consistently good" teaching and improved curriculum.

Reacting to the report, headteacher Paul Floyd said that staff would work hard to continue the school's improvement ahead of a full inspection next year.

He said: "The curriculum development has had a real impact. The children are really enthused with their topics and there are so many creative opportunities available to them.

"Staff have worked relentlessly to improve provision and as a result children are making far greater progress.

"We are all delighted but need to ensure the current level of progress continues."

Year Two teacher Kamila Abualzulof added: "Our children are really enthusiastic about the new curriculum; it gives them the opportunity to express their various interests and to develop skills in creative ways.

"The children feel proud to talk about their learning and have a strong sense of ownership of our new curriculum."

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