OFSTED inspectors have given a primary school near Ross-on-Wye the thumbs up after a recent inspection.

Lea CofE Primary School was inspected by Hazel Callaghan who said: “It is a good school with many strengths. It provides a good education, which is enhanced by an excellent range of additional activities, clubs and visits.” The mixed school has 85 pupils aged between four and 11, with a high proportion having learning difficulties or disabilities.

Teaching at the school was marked as good although it was noted that it was stronger in English than maths.

Lessons are well planned and pupils told the inspector that many of their practical activities made learning fun.

Ms Callaghan added: “The curriculum has many strengths which have been recognised by national awards in arts, for sport, in the promotion of pupils’ healthy lifestyles and support for the environment.” The school was also praised for its close links with the church and exceptional pastoral care.

Kevin Ingram, who chairs the governors, said: “We are extremely grateful to our hardworking and enthusiastic teaching staff, most effectively led by our headteacher Linda Townsend.” The school has been asked to check on pupils’ progress more regularly so it could quickly spot if anyone was having difficulties and to help students to understand how well they were doing and what they needed to do better.