A HARTLEPOOL primary school has been judged as "outstanding" in all key areas after a visit from Government inspectors.

Ofsted visited Hart Primary School last month - and said it had improved "dramatically" since the last inspection in February thanks to strong leadership.

Lead Inspector Philip Scott said in the report: "This is an outstanding school. The inspirational and determined leadership of the headteacher, ably supported by the skilful deputy headteacher, ensures that an uncompromising drive for continual improvement pervades every area of school life.

“The governing body is highly effective. Governors consistently challenge the school and hold senior leaders to account.

They know the school inside out because of the quality of information they receive and because of their involvement in the day-to-day life of the school."

The report goes on to praise teaching and learning.

It said: “Lessons are interesting and lively. In mathematics, basic skills are used very well and consolidated regularly. Work in books shows that a range of areas across the mathematics curriculum are taught regularly.

“Pupils write enthusiastically and with great imagination, often because their writing is linked to the topic they are studying and because teachers have excellent subject knowledge.”

The children were also applauded for their attitude and behaviour, with "excellent" attitudes to learning.

The report, which has been sent out to all parents of the 97 pupils on the school roll, goes on to praise early years provision, saying: “Reception and Nursery children’s play is lively, creative and imaginative. At Hart Primary, children benefit from excellent teaching, outstanding provision, careful observation and skilled questioning by adults.”

Hart Primary School is federated with St Peter’s Elwick Primary School and shares the same headteacher, deputy headteacher and governing body.

Headteacher Jo Heaton, said: “To be judged outstanding in all areas by Ofsted is testament to the fantastic work by children, staff, parents, governors and others who have contributed to the school’s amazing journey over the last two years."