A WEST DEVON village primary school has won high praise from education inspectors who judged every area of school life as good or better.

They said pupils at Lydford Primary School demonstrated an outstanding enjoyment of their learning and achieved above average standards.

'They love the school and are very proud of it,' said the inspectors.

'There are lots of smiles around the playground and their caring attitudes towards one another are particularly good.'

The inspectors from the school standards agency Ofsted concluded: 'This good school serves its community well. The school has improved significantly in recent times and is well placed to improve further.'

They said parents were delighted with all aspects of the school.

And they quoted one representative comment from a parent who told them: 'My child has flourished at the school.'

Headteacher Linda Wells, who has only been at Lydford for two years, said: 'We know our children are happy and feel safe and secure when at school but to have their positive attitudes, happy smiles and love of learning recognised by someone from outside the school was truly a magical moment.

'I am very pleased that the hard work of everyone at the school has been recognised.'

Lead inspector Martin Kerly noted that children start at Lydford with skills and knowledge broadly in line with national expectations.

But the school succeeds so well in 'adding value' to their education that, by the time they reach 11, the children are achieving above average standards.

'Children in the Foundation Stage get off to a good start,' he said.

'This good progress is maintained throughout the school as a direct result of the good teaching and learning in both classes.

'Pupils of all abilities make good progress, including those with learning difficulties. Behaviour is good around the school and exemplary in lessons.

'Numerous visits and special events enrich the curriculum and pupils frequently contribute within the local community, at fairs and festivals and willingly help in conservation projects.

'All pupils are exceptionally well known by the staff and this contributes to the good care, guidance and support for them all.'

Mr Kerly says Mrs Wells' clarity of purpose is a key factor in the good leadership and management of the school.

'The headteacher provides a very clear sense of direction with a distinct focus on high expectations of pupils and staff,' he said. 'She is supported well by colleagues who aretaking on increasing roles of responsibility.'

To improve its work even more, Mr Kerly recommends teachers should provide more detail to pupils so they know exactly what they need to do to improve further, extend pupils'awareness of Britain's cultural diversity and strengthen the involvement of governors.