A SCHOOL in Harwood has received special praise from OFSTED inspectors for the standard of teaching and the behaviour of the pupils.

An in-depth report on St Brendan's RC Primary School showed that the quality of teaching was an "outstanding strength of the school at all stages" and that the number of lessons graded very good or excellent was four times the national average.

Inspectors were impressed by the attitude of the pupils to their work and the "supportive and caring" environment provided for them.

They said that the 30-year-old school gives good value for money with its colourful displays, bright and clean buildings and spacious grounds. Achievements in music and physical education were also singled out for special praise.

The school's Action Plan will now hope to improve their less consistent areas, such as art and handwriting, as well as creating a more structured procedure for day-to-day assessment of pupils' progress in some subjects. Chairman of Governors, the Rev Joseph Mallon, said: "Although we have always known that we have an excellent school, it is gratifying to have confirmation by professional experts."

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