STAFF and pupils at a school near Pershore are celebrating after their latest report from Ofsted.

Elmley Castle CE First School, near Pershore, has improved from ‘satisfactory’ to ‘good’ in all areas after its inspection last month.

In the report, lead inspector Denise Morris said the teaching is almost always good, and is occasionally outstanding, while pupils behave well and enjoy going to school. She said: “Good quality leadership and management ensures that the school runs smoothly and has brought about improvements in teaching.

“The headteacher, ably supported by staff and governors, has created a safe and caring school in which all pupils flourish.”

However, it said the school needs to improve on the impact of teaching in mathematics so pupils’ achievement in the subject matches reading and writing.

Headteacher Megan Thomas said: “We have all been working really hard over the last two years to improve the school for the benefit of the children. This recognition from Ofsted gives us the confidence to improve even more.”

All the staff were thrilled with the report and were looking forward to the activities they have planned for the next half term.

Sally Davies, the forest school leader, said: “We have recently completed our Forest School regeneration project. All the children love the area now that the fire pit has been rebuilt and the woodcarvings have been installed. The older children are always keen to get out in the fresh air and support the younger children in their work.”

Elmley Castle will be holding its open afternoon on Wednesday, December 5, from 1.30pm to 2.45pm when the children will be demonstrating the knowledge and skills they have learnt.