CHILDREN at a Tavistock school enjoy their lessons and are making much better progress, say education inspectors.

Tavistock Community Primary School was judged satisfactory by education inspectors two years ago.

But now, every aspect of life at the 320-pupil school is good or better.

That improvement has come at a time when school inspectors have been getting tougher with their judgements — and they say Tavistock is set to get even better.

After a two-day visit last month, lead inspector Anne Newall concluded in her new report: 'The achievement of most pupils is good overall. Teaching is now good across the school and outstanding in some cases.

'There is a strong leadership team, led by a very effective headteacher and supported by a knowledgeable governing body.

'Together, they have driven the improvements in achievement.

'The rate of progress in English and maths in Years 3 to 6 has improved rapidly since the last inspection.'

The report by inspectors from the school standards agency, Ofsted has just been published.

Ms Newall said pupils made a flying start in the early years foundation stage.

'Children make good progress in the nursery and reception classes because the teachers create a secure learning environment with a range of inviting activities which quickly attract the children's interest,' she said.

'Pupils make good progress during Key Stage 1, building on their earlier learning. Progress in Key Stage 2 is good and standards in reading, writing and maths are at least average or better.

'In many lessons, teaching assistants provide skilful support. Pupils say they enjoy their lessons and like coming to school. (They) enjoy the visits which enrich the curriculum.'

Ms Newall said the teaching in the school's unit for children with communication and interaction difficulties is outstanding, and as a result, these children make outstanding progress, as do children in the specialist nursery provision.

She said pupils were well behaved throughout the school and had positive attitudes to learning with above average attendance.

'The head and staff have brought about considerable improvements in behaviour since the last inspection,' she said.

'The school's strong promotion of spiritual, moral, social and cultural development results in pupils' good behaviour, thoughtfulness towards others and the school's links with local churches.

'The very effective head has established a good team of leaders and governors who are committed to improving the achievement of all pupils. They have successfully shared this ethos with all staff.'

To continue its improvement, the school should speed up the rate at which Key Stage 1 pupils acquire reading and writing skills and enrich the curriculum and learning environment, she said.

Headteacher Lynnette Selbie said: 'We are delighted to receive such a positive report which recognises the very good and outstanding features of this school.

'The areas for improvement are issues we had already identified as part of this year's action plan.

'We are never complacent and continue to strive for excellence in all areas.

'As ever, our pupils are a credit to themselves, their families and our school — we are very proud of them all.'