RAPID improvements have been made at a West Devon primary school over the past year, according to education inspectors.

And, they say, it will get even better in the future as the full impact of initiatives launched this year is felt.

Pupils at Horrabridge Primary are happy to be at school and keen to learn and parents have nothing but praise for the staff, say the inspectors.

More than two thirds of the parents responded to a questionnaire from the school standards agency Ofsted.

Lead inspector Mike Burghart concluded: 'Parents have extremely positive views and are very pleased with the school's fast growing reputation.

'They are confident the school is well run, that teaching is effective and that all staff care for their children.'

Horrabridge hosted the inspectors for two days last month in a new pilot inspection which Ofsted says has 'raised the bar'.

And in all their key findings on the school, the inspectors judged the school was good or satisfactory.

Mr Burghart said of acting headteacher John Clarke: 'He is at the centre of the school's new-found impetus and stability and has the absolute confidence of staff, governors, pupils, parents and the local authority.'

Children are given a secure start to their education in the Early Years Foundation Stage where relationships are good and behaviour excellent.

And across the school, pupils' positive attitudes and behaviour make a strong contribution to the quality of learning.

'Pupils are happy to be at school and keen to join in the excellent range and number of extra-curricular activities that have been introduced this year.

'The school has clear educational direction (and) there is a determination to make improvements.

'There are examples of good practice in all classes and across a range of subjects from teachers and teaching assistants. This is a very good sign for the future.'

To continue its rapid improvement, the school should build on the good practice already begun to raise standards, especially in writing, and to improve links between subjects.

Governors should develop the way they monitor the impact of decisions in terms of pupils' learning and pupils should be made more aware of cultural diversity.

Mr Clarke said: 'I would like to thank the staff, governors, parents and children for the tremendous efforts that have been made by everyone since my arrival.

'We are delighted that the school's capacity to improve further has been recognised and look forward to continuing this progress in September.'