A RAPIDLY improving West Devon primary school has been praised by education inspectors for the good progress its pupils make.

The inspectors praise the swift improvements that Tavistock Primary School has made over the past year — and say it is well placed to get even better.

The inspectors said: 'Because of good leadership and management, it is rapidly improving after a period of instability.

'There is now a strong staff team pulling together to move the school forward.

'The continuing determination of the headteacher, governors and staff to improve the school is underpinned by rigorous checking of the quality of education.'

The inspectors, from the school standards agency Ofsted, spent two days at the 345-pupil school last term and their report has just been published.

They said children start school with skills and abilities below those typical for their age.

But, by the end of Year 6, they are reaching above average attainment in both English and maths.

'Pupils' progress has accelerated and many now make good progress,' said the inspectors.

'Pupils like school and are generally keen to learn.

'The good use of visits and visitors enables pupils to see the relevance of what they are learning.

'Behaviour in lessons and around the school is good and actively contributes to pupils' better progress.

'Pupils' spiritual, moral and social development is good.

'Care, guidance and support are good and rising attendance is now above average.'

Lead inspector Rowena Onions said that children get off to a good start in the early years foundation stage because of the good teaching of both teachers and teaching assistants.

'A well-planned, well-balanced curriculum means that children progress well and learn to adapt to and enjoy school,' she said.

'Children enter with skills and abilities below those typical for their age. By the time they complete their reception year, children have gained the skills and knowledge expected for their age.'

Ms Onions praised headteacher Lynnette Selbie, who took over at Tavistock four terms ago.

'Over the time she has been in post, the head has worked hard to stabilise the school and improve the education it provides,' she said.

'Governors are active and supportive. Most parents are particularly pleased their children like school and think the school is well led and managed.'

To continue its rapid improvement, the school should ensure that all teaching and learning is at least good, with pupils clear what they are going to learn in each lesson.

Children should also have the opportunity to practise what they have learned in one subject while they are working in others.

The pupils and their parents should also be more involved in helping to improve the school.

Mrs Selbie said: 'I am pleased that the improvements made by the hard working team at Tavistock Community Primary School have been recognised by the Ofsted inspectors.

'We will continue to work together to bring about further changes to benefit our pupils and families.'