A VILLAGE school which was told it couldn't improve six years ago has been given another glowing report by Ofsted.

Thornton-in-Craven Primary was described as a school which pupils enjoy attending and leave with high educational standards.

The inspection in January also found acting headteacher Karen Hawkins to be doing an excellent job of running the 60-pupil establishment.

A report reads: "Parents are justified in the confidence they have in the school and it is held in high esteem in the village.

"The acting headteacher has successfully taken on the leadership role. She has acted quickly to rectify weaknesses and is well supported by a very committed governing body.

"The school has a climate in which all pupils can grow and flourish, respect others and be respected."

The report did cite some areas for improvement, such as the outdoor area and use of the computer and interactive whiteboards. However, the governors say that the concerns are already being addressed and stemmed from staffing changes.

Chairwoman of the governors Sheila Jackson said: "We feel that the report presents a fair reflection of the school and demonstrates the dedication of parents, pupils, staff and the leadership team.

"As it states, this school has recently undergone considerable instability due to staffing changes, but during this time the consistently high standards and achievements of the children have been maintained and targets raised for future years. This period of change is now coming to an end and will culminate with the appointment of a permanent headteacher later this month."

This week, the school began installing new ICT equipment and a new playing field is undergoing drainage and levelling which should be completed by next term.

Mrs Jackson added: "Mrs Hawkins, who has been here for less than two terms, has worked incredibly hard. Over this short time she has accurately identified areas for improvement and has taken action to raise standards as well as boosting parental confidence and pupil enjoyment.

"The governing body is optimistic that the rapid progress made so far will continue over the next few terms and will be of great benefit to present and future pupils."