The "happy family atmosphere" at Manaccan primary school has been highlighted in an impressive report from Government inspectors.

The 30-pupil primary earned glowing praise on almost every count, with pupils' personal development and wellbeing, along with the care, guidance and support provided by the school, described as "outstanding." Other features, including the overall effectiveness of the school, pupils' achievement and standards and the quality of teaching and learning were graded "good."

The Ofsted inspector stated: "This is a good school with some outstanding features. Strong leadership and management ensure that good teaching helps pupils achieve well academically and very well with their personal development.

"The school has an accurate understanding of the quality of its own performance. Through the drive and high expectations set by the headteacher, the school continually strives to improve and involve itself in new and exciting projects."

The report added that youngsters joining the school got off to "a flying start".

"Very good provision for children starting school ensures that they achieve well. They reach above the expected levels by the time they start year one. This good progress continues throughout the school so that pupils attain above average standards in English, mathematics and science," said the report.

"The school's involvement in different projects means that many extra teachers and experts come in to work with the pupils. This significantly enhances the quality of teaching and injects really interesting activities into the curriculum."

The inspector described the school as operating as "one big happy family" and said the friendly atmosphere added to its overall success.

He said: "The school thrives on the happy family atmosphere that is so strongly established. The excellent relationships between staff and pupils mean that pupils receive the best possible care, support and guidance. As a result, pupils are very well behaved and enjoy all school activities.C

"The school's good rate of improvement in recent years has every chance of being sustained, due to the strong relationships and team effort apparent amongst the whole of the school community."

Provision for pupils with learning difficulties and disabilities was also praised, as were the school's close links with the local community and charity work. The only shortcoming noted by the inspector was a lack of opportunities for pupils to carry out practical investigations in science.