A PRIMARY school has been given the thumbs up by the education watchdog, after making strong improvements from its previous report two years ago.

The headteacher at Fox Hill Primary School was praised for her 'relentless' attitude and 'determination' to making improvements after Ofsted inspectors visited the school at the end of September.

Sarah Coxell was recognised for working 'collaboratively with other leaders and staff' and 'secured strong values and a caring ethos at Fox Hill'.

The school was previously rated as 'required improvement' in 2016 and appears to be moving forward.

The headteacher said: “I feel proud to have been part of this journey in raising standards, ensuring there are high expectations and aspirations for all.”

Fox Hill Primary School received a 'Good' rating in all five areas of the latest inspection, including effectiveness of leadership, quality of teaching, personal development, behaviour and welfare, outcomes for pupils and early years provision.

However, Ofsted inspectors found that learning for lower-ability pupils needs to be more matched to their needs and key stage 2 students need to read and develop a love for books more.

Despite this, teaching was regarded as typically good with having good subject knowledge and leaders work tirelessly to address all areas for improvement as identified in past inspections.

The report said: "Sometimes, learning is not adapted sufficiently for lower-attaining pupils. As a result, a few do not make strong enough progress in a range of subjects."

Cllr Gareth Barnard, executive member for children, young people and learning said: "We are committed to working with all our schools to ensure that standards are raised and the borough's children get the best possible education."

The school curriculum has also been 'carefully planned' and it is 'broad, balanced and has a clear purpose and intent' for learning.

Mrs Coxell added: “I am delighted that Fox Hill has achieved this ‘good’ rating from Ofsted; it is a huge testament to the dedication and commitment of the staff, governing body, local authority, parents and carers and of course the amazing children."

The report adds: "Pupils have attended science, technology, engineering and mathematics enrichment events at a local international computing company. These opportunities deepen pupils understanding of different careers.

"Visits to the school from the armed forces have also helped challenge sexual stereotypes in the workplace."