A HEREFORDSHIRE school with a growing reputation has been praised by Ofsted inspectors. Children, staff and parents at Luston Primary School are celebrating the report, which confirms the school is effective and provides a good education.

The inspectors said pupils achieved successfully because teaching was good and pastoral care was exceptional.

They also noted the mixed range of skills and experiences children had when joining and the academic and social progress they make.

"As the school's reputation has grown, pupils have joined us from a wider geographical area which has brought the school many new challenges," said headteacher Derek Burbidge.

"Most of the school's resources go into staffing, and with class numbers in the 20s rather than 30s, every child's individuality is celebrated and their full potential realised."

Inspectors also recognised the need to raise standards in writing for Year 1 and 2 pupils, particularly more able ones, and check the progress of pupils from reception to Year 2, so underachievement was quickly identified and acted upon.

Councillor Don Rule, cabinet member for children and young people's services for Herefordshire Council, said Luston school has worked hard for its pupils, which was reflected in the report.

"Congratulations to the teachers, governors and parents, but most of all to the children who are obviously working happily and well," he said.