PUPILS at a Radcliffe primary school have helped to achieve outstanding results in their recent Ofsted inspection.

St John's CE Primary School, which serves pupils in an area with severe deprivation, has been recognised by the government as making 'very good improvement' since its last inspection in 2000.

Inspectors found that the school delivered good value for money and lived up to its motto 'love, learn and grow'.

Teaching and learning levels in some areas were deemed outstanding by the inspectors. They found that the levels of personal development in every child were outstanding and that pupils of all abilities were valued and supported well.

Headteacher Mrs Elaine Standring, said: "We are determined to ensure that children who attend our school are given the very best education despite their social difficulties. We are totally delighted at this recent Ofsted report as it shows that all the hard work and dedication of our teachers and staff over the past few years has really paid off."

To improve further, the inspectors have encouraged staff to continue to raise standards and to share effective classroom practice throughout the school, in Johnson Street.

The report highlights the progress made by children with learning difficulties and directly attributes their success to the high levels of support available in every class. It goes on to say that children who attend the school enjoy the lessons as the teachers make them fun.

The report added: "A major strength of the school is the pupils' excellent personal development and well-being.

"Most pupils hang on to their teachers' every word and try their very best to please."