PUPILS and teachers are celebrating after their school was described as 'excellent' by Government inspectors.

Ofsted inspectors visited Ouston Infant School, near Chester-le-Street, to observe staff and children in December 2003.

They found the quality of teaching to be very good or excellent in 86pc of lessons and commented on the school's innovative classroom practices.

The result places the school within the top five per cent in the country.

Headteacher Sheila Gallagher: "We know we are a very good school but to have this recognition from Ofsted is very gratifying.

"We are committed to providing the best education for all our children and this report shows we are achieving this aim."

Inspectors found that pupils respond positively to the school, enjoy school life and form very strong relationships with others.

Chairman of the school governors Coun Christine Smith said: "The Ofsted report reflects the hard work of everyone involved with our school.

"It is an outstanding achievement and one that parents, children and staff and the whole of our community can be proud of."