AN OFSTED report on a Dearne primary school has revealed that standards have been raised by enthusiastic children meeting the high expectations of teachers.

Bolton Heather Garth has been judged to be providing a stimulating environment which encourages pupils to become confident learners. The result is a significant rise in standards, say the inspectors, but they remain below the national average in English and mathematics.

However, the school has a higher than average number of pupils requiring extra support, but it sets rigorous targets and gives bespoke support to boost pupils’ performance.

Ofsted inspectors found pupils who enjoyed their lessons and believed that their teachers wanted them to do well. They judged the school to be outstanding in providing a good learning environment with well behaved pupils.

“The recent inspection has been a tremendous boost to all concerned with the school,” said headteacher Ann Wise who is praised for her leadership of he 180 pupil school.

“The report has recognised the commitment of all involved, the improvements the school has made since the last inspection and the special nature of our school community.”

A significant number of children enter the school with well below average attainment and low literacy and numeracy skills, but statistics for Years 5 and 6 show that they are expected to reach average standards by the time they leave.

Heather Garth shares its site with a children’s centre and neighbourhood nursery.