INSPECTORS have praised the high quality of teaching at a Newton Aycliffe school.

Staff at Horndale Infant and Nursery School are celebrating after an excellent report from the Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted).

The inspectors commented on good standards in mathematics and writing in years one and two.

Provision for pupils with special needs, which helped them to reach expected level in mathematics and science, were also praised.

The report noted the high quality of the children's work displayed throughout the school, which motivates pupils and makes it an attractive place to learn.

Pupils' behaviour was rated very good, and inspectors said they were friendly to adults and each other, as well as being helpful and polite. School governors were also praised for supporting the school, and contributing to its development and financial planning.

Headteacher Margaret Courtney said: "The Ofsted report acknowledged the hard work and commitment of the staff, pupils, governors and parents of the school.

"It recognises and reflects our policy of striving for improvement."