AN inner-city school where "children start with skills and knowledge below those typical for their age" has remained Outstanding.

Horton Grange Primary School, in Great Horton, had a "monitoring visit" from Ofsted on February 4 and 5, with the report published on March 4.

It was the first visit since the school joined the Exceed Academies Trust in December 2016, after receiving another Outstanding rating on its last full inspection in June 2015.

The education watchdog conducted the most recent visit due to concerns "about aspects of the quality of education".

But it was found, despite a disadvantaged start, pupils at the school often far exceed the rest of the nation.

The report states: "Most children start at the school with skills and knowledge below those typical for their age.

"They make strong progress as they move through the school.

"By the end of key stage 2, most reach or exceed national expectations."

This achievement was also recently recognised by the Minister of State for School Standards, Nick Gibb.

He sent Horton Grange a letter to congratulate the school on being in the top 3 per cent of primary schools in the country for progress in reading, writing and maths by the end of key stage 2.

The report also praised the school for have detailed, well-sequenced plans in place for all subjects.

It states: "This is helping pupils to know and remember more.

"Pupils can remember what they learned last week, last term and in previous years."

The inspector, Chris Cook, was also impressed with the schools work in reading, phonics, maths and physical education.

Students are made aware of the importance of reading as a skill and look forward to weekly visits to the school library.

The phonics programme is well sequenced, linking well with the books children are reading, and staff are very skilled in teaching it.

Meanwhile students are enthusiastic in maths and learn a variety of skills in different sports during physical education.

The report adds: "Pupils are very proud of their school.

"They say Horton Grange is all about teamwork and friendship.

"During the inspection, inspectors asked some pupils what would improve their school.

"Most said they could not think of anything to make it better.

"The only two suggestions were to have an even bigger library and bigger classrooms.

"Pupils enjoy taking on responsibilities.

"These include anti-bullying ambassadors, school council representatives and acting as buddies for new pupils to the school."

New students from the neighbouring school to Horton Grange also settle well and flourish.

This is thanks to a partnership where Horton Grange provides provision for the school's two-year-olds.

Headteacher, Rebecca Marshall said: "I am delighted and extremely proud of this report, which recognises the hard work and dedication of everybody.

"It is a real pleasure to work in this fabulous community and to continue to provide an outstanding education for our pupils."

Trust CEO, Duncan Jacques, added: "This is a brilliant and well deserved outcome.

"Horton Grange Primary has been an Outstanding school for many years and we are delighted that Ofsted agreed again.

"I would like to thank everyone involved for their dedication and effort."