THE county's first free school established following a fight for survival has been praised by Ofsted.

St Mary’s C of E Primary School in Dilwyn was closed by Herefordshire Council in August 2011 but was back open again within weeks to be run for more than a year by volunteers and generous donations.

In January 2013 it was granted free school status – and the education regulator Ofsted has now rated the school as 'good' with outstanding features.

Peter Kyles, head teacher, said: "The staff and pupils have worked hard over the past five years and our efforts have reaped many rewards.

"Last summer all children in KS1 achieved the governments required standard.

"At KS2 the school finished equal second in the Herefordshire Primary League Tables. We have ‘created a successful school’ where OFSTED have judged many areas outstanding."

Ofsted said the small school had a 'big curriculum' which was a significant strength.

They said: "The school gives plenty of attention to basic skills but also provides pupils with a rich range of subjects and activities.

"Children get a superb start to school; early years’ provision is outstanding.

"Caring relationships and a belief that all pupils should enjoy learning and aspire to high standards are at the heart of the school’s work."

They also said the behaviour of pupils was 'outstanding' and that community links were very strong.