THE BRITISH Primary School in Wotton-under-Edge has been praised for its teaching, management and ethos, by OFSTED inspectors.

The team of inspectors was at the school in March for four days and observed a range of lessons, as well as talking to pupils, parents, governors and teachers.

Sixty-two per cent of the lessons monitored were 'good','very good' or 'excellent' while the rest were satisfactory.

The key findings said: "Teaching and learning are always at least satisfactory and in the three younger classes, lessons have some particularly strong features".

The inspectors also found: "A strong ethos fosters very good relationships and good links with parents.

"Pupils are well-behaved and demonstrate positive attitudes to learning."

Headteacher Paul Hiatt, who welcomed the report, said: "We were particularly pleased the inspectors recognised the improvements since the last inspection across a range of subjects including science, ICT, and speaking and listening - maths, in particular, showed significant improvement in 2003."

The report also revealed the standard in science at the end of year six is 'well above average', reflected in the school's success in the UK National Science Challenge which it won last year.

It also found: "There are examples of the highest quality of teaching in Year Two"; and the education in the Reception class is 'very good' in all areas of learning.

On the pupils' attitudes, values and other personal qualities the inspectors said: "Pupils demonstrate good, positive attitudes in lessons and are enthusiastic about taking up opportunities offered by the school.

"Behaviour is good and the school is free of harassment."

The report awarded good scores in areas including the leadership of the headteacher and of other key staff and the governors.

There were also several very good scores, notably for "enrichment of the curriculum, including out-of-school activities".

Mr Hiatt said: "We are pleased with the outcome of the inspection.

"Obviously there are always areas for improvement and in our case that involves literacy in Key Stage 2, although the inspectors acknowledged we have measures in place already to improve standards in this area of the curriculum.

"The British School is a happy school with a high and improving academic standard and a strong sense of community.

"Children are encouraged to take responsibility for themselves while showing consideration for others - it is clearly satisfying all this has been acknowledged in the inspectors' report."