THE end of term was even more festive than usual at a primary school in Alveston after it was praised by education watchdogs.

In their latest report on St Helen's Primary School, Ofsted inspectors judged it to be good in all areas and outstanding in pupil behaviour.

In a letter directly to pupils, inspection team leader Denise Morris said: "You told us that yours is a good school and we agree with you. Your school is giving you a good education.

"Your achievements are good and you make good progress. This leads to high standards that are above those expected for your age."

The inspectors said that St Helen's key strength was "the good personal development of pupils which results in their outstanding behaviour, positive attitudes and their enjoyment of school life."

Pupils felt "happy and secure" because of the warm relationships between staff and pupils, added the report, and develop "a strong moral and spiritual sense".

Inspectors noted that good leadership and management were at the centre of the school's success and the headteacher has implemented many positive changes to the school's accommodation and resources such as the new ICT suite and an "exciting environment" for the youngest children in the reception class.

The inspectors noted good improvement since the last inspection, particularly in accommodation and resources, but also found that marking needs to be developed to help pupils understand what they need to do to further improve their work.

Headteacher Jonathan Cooke said: "Our dedicated and hardworking staff are all engaged in making St Helen's a special place and I am delighted that Ofsted has recognised that we are a good school. We are very proud of our children and the school."

Chairman of governors Doreen Gale said the governors were extremely pleased with the result of the inspection.

"The school benefits from good leadership and management," she said.

"The headteacher has a clear vision for the future. All the staff work closely together providing a safe and happy environment for the children who develop and thrive, attaining good academic standards and positive attitudes."