ONE of Bolton's top performing primaries has been held up as an inspiration to schools nationwide.

Prestolee Primary School — led by Michael Tonge — is described as an example to others in a national report.

The report Freedom to lead: a study of outstanding primary school leadership in England by the National College for Training and Leadership, stated its findings showed “what such leaders are like, what can be done to provide notable primary education and how to do it."

Adding: "It is hope that accounts of what these leaders do will challenge and inspire others."

The primary school, which is rated outstanding by Ofsted, was one of just ten examined nationwide to find out what part leadership plays in the success of schools.

Prestolee Primary School was found to have "pace and urgency, high expectations, positive morale" as well as "empowering staff and delegate authority".

The report added that outstanding primary leaders were said to be people of "exceptional character, determination and courage — firm in their values, clear about priorities and with the leadership and interpersonal skills needed to carry people with them.”

The study urged governing bodies to look for these characteristics when appointing headteachers and senior leaders.

The report stated: “The culture established in outstanding primary schools i s one in which leaders have very high expectations, a no-excuses culture and a single-minded focus on making the school of learning for all” adding that there was no reason why outstanding primary schools shouldn’t be the norm with evidence suggesting “that there is nothing these schools do that others could not .”

The school is already help train the next generation of teachers in its capacity as a National Teaching School.

Executive headteacher Mr Tonge, who also leads Bowness Primary School said: "It is terrific that a school in Bolton has been included in this report on outstanding leadership in England.

"To be recognised for the high quality of education which the leadership team of Prestolee provides, through its amazing staff, is a real achievement.

"It is a reflection of our team ethos and the great support we get from parents and learners alike.

"Key to the success of the school is that we have a really strong set of shared values and a desire to ensure the learners in our care get a first class education.

"As a leader I am really lucky to be surrounded by excellence at every level in school and to be supported so well by our community."