ENTHUSIASTIC pupils and 'passionate' leaders at an Oxford school have been celebrated in a complimentary report from Ofsted.

St Joseph's Catholic Primary School in Headington had a short inspection last month and has now been given feedback, stating it has maintained a rating of 'good'.

A report compiled by Ofsted inspector Sir Robin Bosher, published on Thursday, said: "The school has demonstrated strong practice and marked improvement.

"This may indicate that the school has improved significantly overall.

"Pupils talk incredibly enthusiastically about their learning and about the wide range of activities they engage in."

Sir Robin, who was knighted in 2012 for his services to education, said the 417-pupil school in Headley Way had a ‘stimulating’ curriculum.

Addressing headteacher Sue Tomkys, his report added: "Your very strong and ambitious leadership and that of your senior team have ensured that the school continues to improve.

"You are providing pupils with a diverse curriculum which broadens their minds and helps them think critically.

"Governors know the school well and are passionate about its role within the local and church communities."

He described pupils as 'highly confident and enthusiastic learners'.

Sir Robin said he would recommend the school's next Ofsted is a 'full inspection'.

An inspector recommends this if a school's standards have improved or declined significantly, and could suggest St Joseph's is improving towards the top rating of 'outstanding'.