A PRIMARY school has been given top marks in an OFSTED report.An inspector rated St Mary's Church of England school, Woodbridge, to be outstanding in every category.

A PRIMARY school has been given top marks in an OFSTED report.

An inspector rated St Mary's Church of England school, Woodbridge, to be outstanding in every category.

The report said staff were innovative and always did their best to improve pupils' achievement, while teaching assistants were highly skilled and made a strong contribution.

The Inspector, John Messer, said pupils' achievement was exceptional and that the progress between years three and six put the school in the top six per cent of schools nationally.

Anne Wright, chair of governors, said: “I am delighted by such a wonderful report. It is fitting that it has come just as our head teacher Alister Gourlay announced his retirement - a well deserved affirmation of what he has done for St. Mary's.

“His inspirational leadership has been a key to this success, as has the caring and supportive community that has developed within the school.”

Mr Messer recommended that the school should extend the pioneering work undertaken in monitoring progress and attainment in mathematics.

Mr Gourlay said: “This report is a marvellous endorsement of the teamwork and commitment that is so clearly evident among the members of staff at the school.

“Everyone works tirelessly to maintain and improve the standard of teaching experienced by the children.

“However, the pupils also play an important part in this process and the inspector recognised the enthusiasm they brought to the learning process and their overall caring and supportive natures.”