A SCHOOL that exceeded its national tests target for seven-year-olds has won praise from Government inspectors.

Leadgate Infant School and Nursery Unit, near Consett, provides a 'very good quality of education which enables pupils to reach very high standards,' says its Ofsted report. A strong team spirit, excellent use of ICT equipment and good community links were highlighted.

The school is in an area of high social disadvantage and 38 per cent of pupils get free meals, well above average.

But the inspectors placed Leadgate in the top five per cent of similar schools in the country.

The report said: "There are so many adults working in the school that pupils get almost individual attention most of the time.

"This means that work is matched very carefully to their needs and supports learning very well.

"This is a very effective school. Teaching is very good and this in turn promotes very good learning and very high standards. Pupils are taught to look after each other and they do this very well.

"The adults in the school know each child so well that they work together as one big happy family.''

There have been falling rolls over recent years and this year there are 86 pupils at Leadgate, usually just enough pupils for three classes, but governors have worked hard to save enough money to keep four classes running. There are 78 children in the nursery unit.

School head Pat Davison said: "The hard work of everyone associated with the school is reflected in this fantastic Ofsted report. The pupils match the enthusiasm of staff and governors and I am proud of the superb results we have achieved.

"We have a rich and broad curriculum in Leadgate and this was reflected when we recently achieved a National School Achievement Award.

"ICT plays a big role in teaching at the school and I am particularly pleased to note the inspectors have recognised this.''

The inspectors recommended that attendance rates should be improved. Governors are planning to tackle the problem.

Ms Davison added: "When an inspection team says your school has a 'wonderful caring ethos where each child is valued as an individual and encouraged to do their best' then it reinforces the fact that teachers are doing one of the most rewarding jobs possible."