SCHOOLCHILDREN and staff in Pool-in-Wharfedale are celebrating receiving an upgraded Ofsted rating.

Pool Church of England Primary School was given a Requires Improvement rating the last time government inspectors visited, in 2013.

A new report, however, ranks the school as Good across the board and notes that it is improving rapidly.

Acknowledging the quality of the teaching, the inspectors concluded that: “Progress is accelerating rapidly in reading, writing and mathematics and... pupils are well on their way towards highly aspirational targets.”

It continues: “The headteacher has excellent leadership qualities and, allied with a talented acting deputy headteacher and determined governing body, is improving the school at a rapid rate.”

Headteacher at Pool C of E Primary School, Sally Fox said: “We are delighted that inspectors have acknowledged the hard work and commitment of staff and governors, and the good progress made since the last inspection in March, 2013.

“We are particularly proud of the comments made about our wonderful pupils and the overwhelming support from the pupil’s parents.

“This demonstrates what can be achieved when our whole school community works together with a shared vision of a thriving school.

“We have taken time to celebrate this achievement with our children and to think together about what we need to do next to become even better!”

Chairman of governors at Pool C of E School Joanne Pellow added: “We are delighted that Ofsted has recognised the very real progress the school has made since the last inspection, and all the hard work that has been undertaken by the staff.

“We would also like to acknowledge the support we have received from Leeds City Council and the Diocese, which has been invaluable in supporting us on our continuing journey.”