A BURY primary school has received a glowing reference in a report by independent inspectors.

St Andrew's CE was described as "a very good school with many outstanding aspects of provision" in the Ofsted report.

Among its strengths were the academic attainment of the pupils.

Mr Arthur Ivatts, who led the inspection team, said: "Attainment of pupils by the end of Key Stage One shows that most pupils are meeting national expectations, and a significant proportion are exceeding these levels in the core subjects of English, Mathematics and Science. "At the end of Key Stage Two, attainment by the majority of pupils in English is above the national average and in Mathematics and Science it is well above national expectations."

Other strengths identified were the "exemplary behaviour" of pupils in and around the school, the very good attendance and "very effective teaching at each key stage."

Provision of a wide range of extra-curricular activities was applauded, as were the school's arrangements for the introduction of children into the reception class.

On leadership and management, the school was found to be "provided with outstanding leadership" by the headteacher and was described as "a very effective institution which reflects sound and effective management to a very high standard." The inspectors were impressed by the support provided by the PTA and by class helpers.

The inspectors described St Andrew's as "a caring school in which all are valued," and concluded "there is no doubt that this school provides very good value for money."

Headteacher Mr Colin Cliffe said: "We are delighted by the report.

"It reflects great credit upon all who work so hard for our school."

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