IT WAS three cheers for Chineham Park Primary School as pupils released 200 balloons to celebrate an OFSTED report praising them and their teachers.

Inspectors said the Basingstoke school has many good features that contribute to providing a sound education for its pupils, and that it is an improving school where the quality of teaching is extremely good.

The progress made by pupils in the foundation stage was particularly highlighted by the education watchdogs.

They found that pupils have a very positive approach to learning and a good attitude towards their work.

And the teachers are very positive role models who develop good relationships that enable the pupils to learn how to get on together and behave well.

The OFSTED experts also praised the leadership of the school in Shakespeare Road, Popley, stating it is "very well led with a clear focus on raising standards".

The school's new headteacher, Gwen Clifford, was judged to have a clear vision for the further development of the school.

This left the school inspectors impressed with the "buzz of anticipation in the school of greater things to come".

Mrs Clifford said: "I am fortunate to work with a team of staff, pupils, parents and governors who are committed to improvement and further success.

"We recognise that there are areas for further improvement and are confident we can address these through our action plan."

Speaking to the pupils at the colourful balloon ceremony celebration, Basingstoke mayor Councillor Rose Wellman said: "We want the school to be the tops and you are going the right way to do it.

"Things are going very well for you - you are the ones to make the school even more successful wtih the help of your teachers and governors. You are going to go up and up."