SCHOOL inspectors have ranked a Ledbury school as outstanding.

Much Marcle CofE primary school achieved outstanding scores in all categories of its Ofsted report.

Inspectors praised the exceptional vision, enthusiasm and drive of headteacher Lorna Harrison, who was well supported by staff and an outstanding body of governors.

Children were said to arrive at the school with broadly typical skills but made exceptional progress during their time at the school to leave with well-above average standards in reading, writing and mathematics.

Inspectors said this was due to high quality teaching and effective links between school and home and a creative curriculum offering exciting and memorable experiences.

Teachers had a strong expectation of pupils' progress and organised lessons carefully.

Lessons were described as calm and purposeful while children worked hard.

Pupils were said to use their skills in English, communication and mathematics to enhance their learning across the curriculum.

Disabled pupils and those with special educational needs made the same rapid progress as other children.

The pupils' behaviour was described as outstanding in class and around school and children were said to be extremely polite and courteous.

Their good behaviour was said to be a major factor in their excellent progress.

Leaders and managers worked exceptionally well as a team with senior leaders training and supporting school staff and supporting new colleagues.

The school rigorously tracked and checked pupil's progress in reading, writing and mathematics as they went through the school.

The small size of the school also ensured all pupils and families are known very well by staff who were described as deeply committed to all pupils achieving well.

Inspectors also felt the governing body was highly effective and well informed.

Headteacher Lorna Harrison said: "We are justifiably proud of this achievement.

"We recognise the hard work of our pupils and staff and the support we have from our parents."

About the school

*Smaller than average

*Many pupils taught in mixed-aged classes

*A below average number of disabled pupils while those with special educational needs broadly average

What the school does well

*Teaching is outstanding

*Pupils' progress is exceptional

*Children's behaviour is exemplary

How the school can improve

*It should develop a more formal system of assessing and tracking pupils’ progress in subjects other than reading, writing and maths