A primary school condemned for its 'serious weaknesses' despite gaining some of the best results in Bradford, has seen major improvement.

The Government school standards watchdog Ofsted said in 2001 that Oxenhope CE Primary School had 'serious weaknesses' - only one band up from a failing school.

Despite the school's SATs results in 2001 ranking it third out of Bradford's 150 primaries, the report criticised the management and the standard of much of the teaching at the school.

It said that despite children doing comparatively well, their achievements could be better with improved teaching.

But a recent inspection has shown a marked improvement.

Governors, staff, parents and pupils at the voluntary-aided school are pleased with the news.

Headteacher Mike Wragg said: "Things have improved so much we no longer have any key issues to deal with and the report reaffirms that we are a good school.

"There is a caring atmosphere in the school and the pupils can be relied on to look after each other. I am proud of what has been achieved."

Mr Wragg added that over the past two years, work had been put into improving the quality of teaching, raising the level of involvement with governors, improving management systems and communication with parents and pupils.

The inspection in November concluded that the school was now 'good' and no longer had serious weakness in any part of its provision.

Inspectors stated: "The school provides good value for money. Teaching is good overall. Standards are above average in most subjects by the end of Year 6. Pupils' achievement is good in lessons."

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