A JUNIOR school in York has been praised by inspectors for providing an effective education and stimulating learning opportunities for its pupils.

Upper Poppleton Junior School has just received its Ofsted report, following an inspection in November, and it describes test results as good, teaching as good and often very good, pupils' attitudes as very good and behaviour as good.

But systems of communication between senior staff and for checking on the quality of teaching and learning were described as too informal and unsatisfactory and as a significant weakness of the school.

The report says the school had improved since its last inspection in 1996 by boosting the attainment of pupils in national tests and the overall quality of teaching.

Results for tests taken by 11-year-olds last summer showed English and maths results well above average and maths above average. But inspectors said that progress in maths could be better for those who were "higher attainers".

In art, design and technology and history, pupils exceeded the levels expected nationally.

Improvements had also taken place in management and a new information and communication technology suite had been provided.

Pupils were described as "enthusiastic learners" and behaviour good, but inspectors said that on a few rare occasions, where teaching was unsatisfactory, behaviour deteriorated and was unsatisfactory.

Teaching in 92 per cent of lessons was satisfactory or better and in 74 per cent of lessons was good or better and in 45 per cent was very good or excellent.

Areas for improvement include standards of maths, spelling and handwriting; leadership and systems of communication between senior staff.

Head teacher Michael Ashmore said: "We're very pleased with this report and it highlights all our qualities. The areas identified for improvement are matters already identified by the staff and the governors."