A HEADTEACHER has thanked the 'committed' staff at a Herefordshire primary school which has been removed from special measures.

Brockhampton Primary School was rated as 'inadequate' by inspectorate body Ofsted following an inspection in January last year, meaning that an interim academy board was brought in to support the school's management.

Just 18 months later inspectors have carried out their latest inspection and rated the school as 'good' in all key areas.

Martin Pye, lead inspector's report, he said: "Since the previous inspection, the quality of teaching and learning has improved considerably. Across the school, teaching is good. In Years 2 and 3, it is particularly strong.

"The headteacher has a clear understanding of what constitutes effective teaching and learning. He leads the school with quiet determination and has been instrumental in bringing about sustained school improvement.

"Pupils are attentive to their teachers, polite to visitors and kind to one another. Pupils feel safe at school and report that considerate behaviour is the norm. Procedures for dealing with any problems work well."

Attendance rates have also improved over the last 18 months.

This latest report has delighted Headteacher Matthew Mander, he said: "This is a testament to the commitment and hard work of all the staff here and I want to take this opportunity to thank them for their professionalism and dedication in a process that was, at times, quite challenging.

"This is now a hugely significant time for Brockhampton and a wonderful opportunity to build on the work we have done here so far. Standards and expectations here have risen and we now have a chance to move forward in a direction that we determine and fulfil the huge potential that exists here to create a truly unique educational setting.

"The whole school community is naturally delighted with the outcome and are looking forward to moving the school on to even bigger and better things. Visitors are always more than welcome to see the school in action."