A NEAR 130-year-old school on the edge of York has been praised for providing a "distinctive family atmosphere" and a good education for its pupils.

Heworth CE Primary School, dating back to 1870 and with more than 130 pupils on its roll, is described by Office For Standards in Education inspectors as a "well led school" with hard working teachers.

Standards of attainment in English are above the national average by the time pupils reach the age of seven, the end of key stage one, and at the end of key stage two when they are aged 11.

The inspectors said: "Pupils can express themselves with unusual fluency, giving reasons and offering persuasive arguments for their point of view."

Standards in maths, science, history, art and music are also above the level expected, with music provision described as an "outstanding feature".

Of the 49 lessons observed, 92 per cent were "sound" or "better", said the inspectors.

The spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils is also good.

The inspectors noted pupils are "occasionally boisterous in lessons", although for the most part they respond well.

Their enthusiasm is praised and their level of attendance and punctuality is also highlighted.

"The relatively small size of the school and the close relationships between pupils help to create a genuine family atmosphere in which each pupils is well know to the others and older pupils care for the older ones," states the report.

The school, which is said to be well led by the head, deputy head and governors, has "unusually" strong links with the local community.

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