THE head of a once struggling school has thanked his staff for their help in achieving a turn around.

Several years ago Ofsted inspectors found that 405-pupil Pallister Park Primary School, in Middlesbrough, had experienced problems caused by weaknesses in management and planning.

But officials were more impressed on a recent visit to the school, which they described as an improving school with special strengths.

Inspectors found that because of the "outstanding leadership'' of the head, shared commitment of staff and effective teaching, the school was well placed for further development.

They found an exemplary range of extra curricular activities. The children are well behaved because teachers manage pupils well and motivate them.

The team found the children enjoyed their lessons and were proud of the school.

Headteacher Chris Wain said: "I would like to thank all the staff of the school, both teaching and non-teaching, who have worked so hard to achieve this wonderful report.

"We are very pleased to see the report shows a shared commitment among members of the school community to raise standards even further.

"The school is well placed for further development."

The school is in the Middlesbrough Education Action Zone. Its director, Dee Palmer-Jones, said: "I am delighted for the staff at Pallister Park as they have worked very hard."