THE proportion of headteachers providing excellent leadership and management in schools has doubled in the past five years, according to an Ofsted report unveiled in the North-East.

The report was launched yesterday at the St Thomas More RC School Teaching and Learning Conference, in Gateshead, by Chief Inspector of Schools David Bell.

He said: "The most effective schools are distinguished by leadership that is inspirational, with a strong commitment to the school, its pupils and the community.

"As I visit schools up and down the country, I see headteachers of schools in the most challenging of circumstances motivating staff and pupils in the face of adversity.

"I am always struck by the outstanding work of these headteachers and the role that leadership and management can play in inspiring loyalty and dedication in schools.

"I hope Ofsted's inspection evidence and the best practice examples outlined in today's report will help headteachers continue to develop their leadership and management skills for the future benefit of the staff and pupils alike."

The report, based on evidence from Ofsted's school inspections and surveys carried out by inspectors from 2000 to 2003 shows leadership and management to be good or better in 76 per cent of primary schools and 84 per cent of secondary schools.