PARENTS of children at Hatherleigh Primary are so pleased with the school that they would all recommend it to other families, according to education inspectors.

The parents' support for the school has been backed by Ofsted inspectors, who say every aspect of school life is good.

They say the school's overall effectiveness is good and so is the achievement of pupils, the quality of teaching, the behaviour and safety of the children and the leadership and management.

Children start school with levels of attainment expected for their age, the inspectors said in their report, recently published following a two-day visit to the school last month.

The report states: 'Pupils make good progress throughout the school, many attaining above average standards by the age of 11 and achieving at a faster rate than pupils nationally.'

Teaching is good with outstanding examples and the pupils respond well to their teachers' high expectations and learn rapidly as a result.

Inspectors said: 'Teachers throughout the school have good knowledge and hold pupils' interest and attention well.

'Pupils are very positive about wanting to learn and refer to "interesting" and "fun" lessons. This is a significant factor in their good progress. They enjoy all aspects of school life and are particularly enthusiastic about the classroom topics and the several clubs and visits, including the residentials for older pupils.

'Pupils benefit from particular strengths such as sport and music provision. Teaching assistants provide good support, especially for disabled pupils and those who have special educational needs.

'Behaviour is good and often outstanding in lessons. Pupils all feel very safe and well cared for.'

Lead inspector John Laver said staff shares headteacher Caroline Boother's commitment to improvement. The governors were active in school and held leaders to account well.

The leadership has been successful in improving key areas like achievement and teaching since the previous inspection in 2011 and this showed that the school is set to get even better in the future, said Mr Laver.

To do this it should ensure there is more outstanding teaching and bring the good progress in maths up to the very good progress demonstrated in reading and writing.

Headteacher Caroline Boother said: 'We are delighted with the outcome of our Ofsted inspection.

'Whilst ensuring that standards continue to rise in literacy and numeracy, the staff, governors and parents remain deeply committed to providing our children with a broad and challenging curriculum.

'The children's enthusiasm for learning extends beyond the school day and they often take the initiative in organising events and looking after each other.

'Recently the whole school enjoyed trips to the theatre and we are looking forward to our spring music concert and the science show organised as part of science week.

'We are very well supported by our local community and enjoy playing an active part within it.

'I would like to thank everyone who has contributed towards such a positive Ofsted judgement.'