A BOURNEMOUTH primary school is celebrating a positive Ofsted inspection.

St James’ Church of England Primary Academy was rated as 'Good' by the education standards regulator.

The rating comes just over a year after Jeremy Payne took over as principal.

The report commends the academy, saying that ‘pupils are provided with a rich learning environment’.

It specifically praises improvements to the way maths is taught and the teaching of English following the appointment of a new lead for the subject.

Mr Payne said: "We’re really pleased the hard work of staff and pupils has been officially recognised by the inspector.

"I’m deeply proud of the whole team, who have worked so tirelessly to make sure that our children get the best possible start in life. I also want to thank the parents for their continual support."

The academy at Christchurch Road is part of the Portsmouth & Winchester Diocesan Academies Trust.

Jeff Williams, Director of Education for the Winchester and Portsmouth Dioceses, said: "I’ve been immensely impressed by the great work that Jeremy and his team have undertaken at the academy, and this Ofsted report rightly acknowledges their achievements.

"I’m particularly proud Ofsted chose to specifically commend the respect and tolerance displayed by pupils, values which are underpinned by the Christian ethos of the academy."