A SCHOOL'S outstanding provision for environmental education, the arts and pupils' personal development were highlighted in a glowing Ofsted report.

Cassop Primary, the first wind powered school in England, is a place where children blossom, said education inspectors.

The report said: "At Cassop the headteacher, staff and governors never settle for anything less than the best."

Inspectors described headteacher Jim McManners as having infectious enthusiasm and inspirational leadership and said the drive and encouragement he offered the had been at the forefront of the school's success.

Mr McManners was quick to highlight the quality of his team, which includes teachers, non-teaching staff, voluntary help and the pupils themselves.

The report said: "The challenge of work is always high, but the pupils love it. The consistently high quality of teaching ensures this."

Mathematics was singled out as exceptionally well taught and exciting. Cassop Primary is nationally recognised centre of excellence in the field of environmental education.

Inspectors said pupils reached very high standards and their artwork was described as vibrant and exciting and stunning.

Mr McManners said: "We could not be more pleased with the Ofsted report. We are particularly pleased that the inspectors confirmed our firmly held convictions that effective education can be exciting and adventurous."