SCHOOL Inspectors have praised a Southampton school for making major improvements over the last five years.

During their three-day visit to Oakwood Infant School in Lordswood Ofsted inspectors found standards had improved in science.

Children in reception class also had the chance to use better equipment and teachers were found to have improved tracking pupils' progress.

The school, which caters for 224 children aged from four to seven, was described as "a good school" with "many strengths".

Standards were found to be above the national average in English, maths and science.

Head teacher Sue Moores, who took over the school five years ago, is delighted that the hard work of teachers, governors and pupils has paid off.

"We are thrilled that Ofsted identified a significant feature of the school is its ability to include pupils with varying needs and also that we have excellent extra-curricular provision.

"We are pleased that the team recognised the very effective links with parents and the friendly, inclusive nature of the school."

Peter Reid, chairman of the governors said: "We are also happy that the very high levels of pupils enthusiasm were recognised along with the very high level of trust and respect between pupils and adults."

STRENGTHS

Very good leadership

Above average standards in the core subjects

Good quality teaching, learning and assessment

Pupils' attitudes and relationships are very good

Excellent extra-curricular activities

Very good provision for personal, social and health education.

WEAKNESSES

Cramped use of accommodation in Year 1

High turnover of staff

No pupils have achieved the higher level in writing

Pupils' attendance was below average last year, although it is now improving

STANDARDS

In National Curriculum tests at the end of Year 2 children were found to perform well above average in reading, average in writing and above average in mathematics when compared to similar schools.

The school has improved very well since the last inspection.

Children in reception class make very good progress.

In years 1 and 2 standards in English, mathematics, science, personal, social and health education are above expectations.

Writing standards are just in line with those expected.

Attendance and punctuality are improving and are now satisfactory, although attendance last year was below average.

QUALITY OF EDUCATION, LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT

Teaching, learning and assessment are good overall.

Resources and support staff are used very well to support pupils' learning.

Extra-curricular activities are excellent.

Very good links have been established with parents, the community and other schools.

Leadership of the school is very good.

Pupils with special educational needs and those with English as a second language are helped to achieve well.

IMPROVEMENTS NEEDED

Improve attainment in writing further and ensure pupils are entered for higher levels in the tests.

Improve cramped conditions in Year One and stabilise the high turnover of staff.

Continue to improve attendance rates