A PRIMARY school has been praised for maintaining standards despite a time of ‘significant instability’.

North Leigh Church of England Primary School near Witney has kept up its Ofsted rating of ‘good’, according to a report released yesterday.

An inspector for the education regulator wrote: “Since the [previous] inspection in 2011, there has been a period of significant change and instability.

“The leadership team has maintained the good quality of education in the school.”

The inspector explained that the change he was referring to was the school’s conversion to an academy in 2015, which saw it become part of Oxford Diocesan Schools Trust.

Addressing headteacher Deborah Seccull, who took the helm after the academy conversion, he wrote: “You have quickly established a culture of high ambition for pupils’ academic and personal development.

“You provide a clear focus on achieving the highest quality of teaching and learning. This is recognised and greatly valued by staff, pupils and parents.”

The primary school in Park Road, North Leigh, teaches about 180 pupils.

Ofsted’s report added: “The school is a positive and welcoming place. Staff and pupils are friendly, polite and demonstrate respect for each other.

“You [Ms Seccull] have built on the strengths of the school and tackled the areas that needed to improve well.

“Pupils take pride in work and present it neatly. You [Ms Succull] have strengthened leadership of the school.”

The inspector spoke to staff and read online reviews written by 70 parents.