HIGH achieving children thoroughly enjoy their lessons at a happy and effective West Devon primary school which has undergone rapid improvements, say the education watchdog Ofsted.

Inspectors say Lady Modiford's Church of England Primary at Walkhampton has improved attainment and progress in all subjects. They rate every aspect of the school's work as either outstanding or good.

And it's set to get even better in the future, according to their recent report.

Two inspectors spent two days at Walkhampton at the end of last term.

'The headteacher, supported by staff and governors, has effectively improved many aspects of the school since the last inspection,' said lead inspector Ronald Hall.

'The impact of this has been to improve the quality of teaching and learning and to achieve a sustained improvement in attainment and progress in all subjects.'

He said the outstanding early years foundation stage ensures children got off to a flying start.

They enter school with standards below national expectations but leave the foundation stage with skills above those expected for their age, because of the consistently outstanding teaching.

'This good progress continues throughout the school with pupils now reaching levels above national averages by the end of Year 6,' said Mr Hall.

'The curriculum supports learning well and offers pupils a range of interesting and highly relevant learning opportunities.

'There is an excellent use of visits and visitors and an excellent range of sporting and other extra-curricular activities that enrich and enhance pupils' learning opportunities.'

Mr Hall said the school had an excellent, caring ethos which had a very positive impact on pupils' attitudes and personal development and means it is a warm and welcoming place for both children and staff.

One child told the inspectors: 'I think school is great.

'The curriculum is more fun and we want to learn.'

And a parent spoke for the majority in saying: 'My children are well cared for in a happy, learning environment.'

Mr Hall said headteacher Gavin Hamilton had a clear vision for improvement and was well supported by staff and governors who robustly and rigorously monitored the school and held all the staff to account.

To continue its rapid improvements, the inspectors say the school should ensure all parents have regular communication to develop their roles in their children's education and make sure all pupils have an in-depth understanding of our diverse society.

Mr Hamilton said: 'This glowing report is a testament to the consistent hard work that all the school community put into Lady Modifords.

'All the staff, governors, parents and children are very proud of our school and the young people that we send to the next phase of education are a credit to us all.

'I would like to especially thank the staff and governors for their support.'