A TROUBLESHOOTER sent in to a failing Yate primary school four months ago has been praised for its turnaround.

Richard Hanks has successfully steered Rodford Primary School clear of a notice to improve issued by Ofsted inspectors last year.

Education inspectors have congratulated Mr Hanks, who only took over as acting head in August, for improving the 177-pupil school.

Inspector Jill Arnold said: "Since its previous inspection, the good quality of leadership has secured improvements to teaching and learning which have accelerated the rate of pupils' progress and have begun to drive up standards in the school.

"The significant improvement in the school since its previous inspection has been driven by the tenacious and enthusiastic approach of the acting headteachers and senior leaders. "Together, they have created a common sense of purpose amongst staff in the drive to raise standards."

In 2006, inspectors had said the school's leadership was at an unsatisfactory level and ex-headteacher Rosanne Boulton-Nash left soon after the report was published.

Mr Hanks was appointed acting head in August following a six month period when the deputy headteacher Jo Williams was acting head.

Mr Hanks said: "We are delighted at the report and its reconigition of the hard work and commitment of all staff and pupils.

"We put in an action plan when I came to improve the leadership at the school, involving governors, teachers and parents.

"I believe the improvement in leadership has meant we are more able to understand and meet the children's needs."

Mr Hanks, who is contracted until next August, would not comment on whether he would become the permanent headteacher but said he was enjoying his stay.

He added: "Things are working well here and it is possible I could stay past next summer."