A SCHOOL which welcomed pupils from a neighbouring primary when it closed has been heaped with praise by Government inspectors.

High Lawn Primary School in Sharples received a glowing report from Ofsted, the Government watchdog for education.

Inspectors found the level of achievement by youngsters was good, despite many pupils coming from backgrounds where English is a second language.

The inspection was High Lawn's first since it took in children from Oldhams Primary which closed two-and-half-years ago after spending four years in "special measures" for repeated failure to meet key targets.

Headteacher Mark Williams said: "We are delighted that Ofsted has recognised that we are a successful school with many strengths.

"The report is a credit to our dedicated team of staff.

"We are particularly pleased that pupils' personal development and the care, guidance and support that they receive have been judged as outstanding."

He added: "The two areas for development are already part of our school improvement work and will enable us to build upon existing good practice in school."

Inspectors found that all aspects of school life warranted an outstanding or good grade.

Learning and teaching at the school were "good" - pupils were said to achieve well and by the end of primary school were a step ahead of their peers nationally.

The report said: "Pupils attain standards well above average by Year Six."

The school, which has a greater ethnic mix since youngsters from Oldhams moved in, was praised for ensuring all pupils make good progress, including those with learning difficulties and those whose first language is not English.

Teaching was "good" and cited as the major reason for pupils' achievement.

The school's leadership and management was provided a "strong direction" which has helped the two schools come together successfully and "to build on its success".

Areas rated outstanding were personal development and well-being, and care, guidance and support.

Inspectors said: "Pupils are well prepared for future schooling and life."

One aspect where the school could do even better was the assessment and marking process.

David Kay, chairman of the governors, said: "We are delighted. We commend the staff on their hard work and commitment in amalgamating two schools so quickly and effectively for the benefit of High Lawn pupils."