LYDFORD Primary School has been transformed under the leadership of its new headteacher, after a critical OFSTED report five years ago.

Education inspectors from OFSTED visited the school in January and have found significant improvements, with pupils achieving above average standards.

The latest report highlights the pupils' involvement in decision-making and the school's close links with its community as two examples of Lydford's outstanding practice.

Unusually for an OFSTED report, the inspectors say they can find no weaknesses in the school's work which need to be improved.

'The very good leadership and teaching of headteacher Gill Page mean that there is a very strong sense of purpose, with a determination to raise standards, permeating through the school,' said chief inspector Jane Morris.

'This has a significant and very positive impact on all aspects of the school's work. Lydford is well placed to continue going from strength to strength with the complete confidence of parents.'

The quality of teaching, assessment and curriculum have all improved, as has leadership and management and the role of governors was a lot stronger, the report revealed.

All 33 pupils were achieving well in relation to their ability, with year six pupils (11-years-old) working well above the national expectations in English, maths and science.

Year two (seven-years-old) inspection evidence shows above average achievement in reading, writing and maths and information and communications technology.

High quality extra-curricular provision enriched and broadened pupils' learning effectively.

Inspectors said that pupils learned well because teachers, supported by very effective learning assistants, knew individuals extremely well.

Mrs Page, who has been at Lydford for two years, said: 'We are very pleased with our report. It is a reflection of the hard work and commitment from all the staff, parents, governors and pupils at the school.

'For a very small school it is helpful to know that we are in line with expectations and providing a wide and varied curriculum.'