THE CARE and support within one of the Bolton and Bury area's smallest schools shone through despite a flooding disaster.

Affetside Primary School, which has only 60 pupils, was still able to impress OFSTED inspectors despite struggling to cope with heavy damage caused by a burst just days before the official inspection began.

Equipment, records and even children's work were damaged or destroyed, the start of the new term was delayed and the whole running of the school was disrupted by the mopping up operation. But the team of three inspectors had glowing praise for the school and particularly the hard work of governors, staff, parents and pupils.

Although some suggestions for change were made, their report said: "The school is a caring community with well established values.

"Pupils are encouraged to develop their individual interests and abilities in a secure and supportive atmosphere.

"Pupils' social and moral understanding is well developed and they show respect and consideration for others. "Standards of behaviour are very good.

"Relationships between pupils and staff are very good and contribute to the purposeful working atmosphere at the school.

"There is a well established social aspect to school life which benefits all concerned.

"Pupils' social and cultural development is enhanced by a well planned programme of educational visits and extra curricular activities." Bury's Education Committee Chairman, Cllr Paul Ainscough, said: "OFSTED inspections are never easy and when, as in the case of Affetside, they coincide with a major disaster such as the flooding, then life really becomes difficult.

"However, despite all the problems, the better points of the school did shine through and for that staff, governors, parents and pupils have to be congratulated."

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