A SCHOOL in north Durham has been described as 'effective and improving' in an Ofsted report.

Beamish Primary School and Nursery at Beamish, near Stanley, offers good value for money, according to Government inspectors.

They observed classes last year and said the school had good leadership and management. The report said: "Pupils enjoy school and feel safe and secure. They particularly value the buddy system in the playground and residential visits."

School governor Kathleen Dodds: "We are very happy with the report. It is very positive and an improvement from last time. It is all down to the hard work and dedication of the teachers."