ENTHUSIASTIC pupils at a Dartmoor primary are enjoying rising standards and good care thanks to the new energy pervading the school, according to education inspectors.

They quote parents who say they are really pleased with the school's progress under new headteacher Alison Hirst, who was appointed last September.

The inspectors, from the school standards agency Ofsted, conclude: 'Princetown School has emerging strengths.

'The school has gained new energy this year. Recent actions have begun to strengthen pupils' achievement.

'There is a strong shared commitment by staff, governors and most parents. Parents value the positive ethos, the commitment to individuals and the good pastoral care.'

The two inspectors spent a day at Princetown last month and their report has just been published.

It concludes that children get off to a good start in Reception where they are well cared for and benefit from close relationships with staff.

They feel safe and secure, are enthusiastic about learning and behave well.

Throughout the school pupils develop positive attitudes to learning and behave well because of their good personal development.

They achieve nationally expected standards in almost all areas by the end of Year 6 and actions taken by the new leadership to improve achievement are already beginning to have an impact.

'Much of the teaching observed was good,' says lead inspector George Logan.

'Many lessons have a good pace which moves learning on well. The environment for learning is well organised (and) relationships are a strength.

'The curriculum is broad and effectively enhanced by a good range of out-of-class clubs, visits and themed events.

'Pastoral care is good. Staff know individual pupils well and ensure their welfare needs are met effectively.'

To continue to improve, the school should ensure children's writing is given a boost, the outdoor learning opportunities for Reception children should be enhanced and the pupils should be made more aware of cultural diversity.

Mr Logan says a new programme of intensive writing is being implemented with other local schools and intensive support programmes in reading, writing and speech and language at Princetown are already boosting pupils' progress.

Mrs Hirst said a key focus for improvement was to develop an inspiring outdoor learning space for the children.

She added: 'We are all pleased with this inspection report which confirms the progress the school has made over the past year and I am very grateful for all the hard work of staff, pupils and governors and the support from parents and the wider community.

'I want to thank all the staff and governors for their continued commitment and our families for making me feel very welcome in my first year.'