IMPROVEMENTS at a Poole school have been recognised by Ofsted inspectors who have graded it as 'good'.

St Mary's Catholic primary school in Devon Road was graded as 'requires improvement' when inspectors visited in October 2016.

But a report published following a recent inspection highlights the improvements made since by head teacher Helen Armstrong and her team.

Lead inspector Andrew Lovett said: "Leaders and teachers are working together effectively to raise standards. They responded quickly to the criticisms made in the last inspection and have made significant improvements."

He said pupils make good progress, broadly in line with other schools in the area, and that pupils with English as an additional language make better than average progress.

The report goes on: "Pupils behave well. They are friendly supportive of each other and do what teachers ask of them.

"Pupils enjoy a broad curriculum in all year groups. Before and after school clubs are well-attended and are a prominent part of school life."

The school has 401 pupils between the ages of four and 11.

Inspectors said the school should ensure that middle leaders have the training to carry out their roles effectively if the school is to improve further.

They also said teaching, learning and assessment could be improved with a focus on improving spelling and handwriting, giving precise advice to pupils and having high expectations of pupils of average ability, particularly boys.

Helen Armstrong, head teacher said: "I am absolutely delighted at the outcome of this inspection. It demonstrates the unwavering commitment that everyone in our school has given, not only to raise standards but also to ensure that pupils and parents alike can be proud of our school.

"Looking forward we will build on the recommendations in this report to ensure that every child benefit from the richness of school life."