A SCHOOL deemed failing seven years ago has transformed its reputation with a glowing report. Ofsted inspectors spent two days at the beginning of February assessing Great Easton Church of England Primary School. The report, which is just out, showed eve

A SCHOOL deemed failing seven years ago has transformed its reputation with a glowing report.

Ofsted inspectors spent two days at the beginning of February assessing Great Easton Church of England Primary School.

The report, which is just out, showed every aspect of the school's was excellent, stating the key to its success and outstanding achievement is down to principled and determined leadership by the head and governors.

Gill Hopkins, head teacher, said: "We are all utterly delighted with this report. It is particularly gratifying in that only seven years ago we were deemed by Ofsted to be a failing school and now we are in the top 10 per cent for achievement of primary schools in the country.

"The school we have now is the result of the hard work of the entire school community - staff, governors, parents, volunteers - but most of all our pupils.

The inspectors judged the following to be outstanding;

- The overall effectiveness of the school

- The achievement and standards of pupils

- The children's personal development and wellbeing

- The quality of provision at the school.

Ms Hopkins said: "Every adult who comes into contact with our children has only the highest praise for them and we are immensely proud of them."

The inspector also noted that 'all staff and governors share the uncompromising aim of putting the individual child and their achievement at the centre of everything the school does'.

"While our children do very well academically, one of our parents told the Ofsted inspector that 'Great Easton is not just about results but developing individuals and we are delighted our work has been acknowledged," said Mrs Hopkins.

"The management team is committed to ensuring that our children and all their needs remain at the forefront of everything we do."

Other areas noted as being exceptional were the welcome given to new pupils and the school's exceptional links with parents and the local community.

Inspectors found one area that required further improvement. It was to raise standards even further of average attaining pupils especially in writing, but even here the report stated strategies are already in place to do this.

Rachel Kesterton, school governor, said that Mrs Hopkins had announced recently she was leaving the school to become the curate in the Wickford ministry.

"She has been a massive player in these achievements and we are sorry she is leaving but her inheritance to us is a school everyone is proud of," she said.

Staff are looking forward to welcoming her successor Damian Pye and are eager to work with him to keep the school the success it now is.