St Joseph's in Rowley Road was given an 'outstanding' grading by government watchdog Ofsted after inspectors visited the site last month.

The school, which has 217 pupils, was commended for its high standard of education and successful leadership. The report said: "This outstanding school gets the very best out of pupils who are justifiably proud of their consistently high attainment.

"Year six pupils' standards are high in English, mathematics and science, which represents exceptional progress from their starting points and continues the good improvements over recent years."

Osfted, which inspects schools around the UK, also praised staff and headteacher Jim Goggin for the way pupils are encouraged. It said: "From the moment they enter the reception the school gives pupils many opportunities to take responsibility and they do it very well.

"A key factor in pupils' outstanding achievement and the school's success lies in the excellent leadership by the headteacher. He inspires pupils and staff by his commitment to high academic standards while taking every opportunity to enhance pupils' spiritual and moral development."

Describing how he motivates youngsters, Mr Goggin, who has worked at the school for more than a decade, said: "I inspire them due to my high expectations. I do have high expectations of the pupils and their behaviour towards teachers, each other and their families.

"I still teach often as well as I think it is important for the pupils and staff to see me in the classroom. I mainly cover maths and am a teacher at heart."

The report also suggested the school could improve writing skills by "providing more opportunities for pupils to write independently of the teacher to raise standards even further."

Mr Goggin explained he has already taken this advice and added: "Our writing grades are above average and there is just a small number who need extra help.

"We are looking to take the advice on board and put measures in place to help the few children who need more help to write independently."