STAFF and pupils at a Teesside primary school have been praised by Ofsted inspectors following their latest inspection.

The report said the excellent vision of the headteacher at Harrow Gate Primary School, in Stockton, had ensured that the school was a caring and welcoming place, where children were keen to learn and children's personal development was outstanding.

Inspectors said: "Staff have created a very good learning environment, where children are nurtured and thrive."

Headteacher Debbie Collinson said: "The children are a delight to be with and deserve only the very best. I am so proud of them, and all the staff who work so hard in making this school the very best."

Harrow Gate was the first primary school in Stockton to be inspected under guidelines introduced in September. Schools are now given just two days' notice of an inspection.

The inspector wrote to the pupils to praise them, and each pupil was given a copy of the letter to take home to their parents.

The letter said: "We think that your school is a caring and welcoming place ... your excellent behaviour helps teachers to do their job."

The Ofsted inspection highlighted the school could improve children's writing skills across the curriculum, but also said "focused leadership and management and very good teamwork ensures the school is well-placed to make further improvements".

Harrow Gate Primary has gained a number of honours, including Charter Mark, Investor in People, ICT award NAACE, Arts Mark, Quality Mark, Active Mark and a Healthy Schools award.