OFSTED inspectors have praised the continual improvements at Stoke Prior Primary School.

According to their report, the village school is 'effective with very good features, including the standard of teaching and the attitude of pupils'.

The report highlighted the fact that 'the school has very good links with parents and provides very good support and guidance to pupils' development'. It added the 'leadership by the headteacher is very good and the excellent teamwork of the whole staff is having a positive impact on raising standards'.

Since the school was last inspected in 1997, good progress has been made particularly in providing better resources for information and communication technology.

The only area identified as needing improvement was accommodation for children in the reception class.

A school action plan is already taking shape to obtain a covered and fenced area considered essential for reception children.

Headteacher Carol Holder was both pleased and proud that OFSTED recognised the strengths of this small school.

"The report has confirmed the many very good aspects now offered at Stoke Prior. Equally pleasing is the inspectors' recognition of the direction and speed with which the school is progressing from very good to... even greater things," she added.