Sir – Last year our son was placed first of 16, on the list of children in catchment, but not offered a place at Wolvercote Primary. It soon became apparent that the catchment area would also be altered before our second son would be able to start.

This forced us to investigate other local schools including Cutteslowe, which with great reservations and Ofsted ringing in our ears, we arranged to visit.

The school is situated at the end of a quiet, residential street, overlooking acres of parkland. Jo Kensit, who job shares the role of foundation stage co-ordinator with Claire Flack, showed us around their impressive and inspiring unit. Ofsted recently agreed, rating the department good.

We refused the offered place at Wolvercote, opting for the potential and energy we had seen at Cutteslowe. The size of the school allowed the foundation stage to create two classes, our sons had only 22 pupils!

Sadly, the headteacher became ill in September and when it became apparent he would not recover for some time, he stood down, allowing the school to move on after a generally poor but unsurprising (with no head) Ofsted. Mr Renshaw should be applauded for his unselfish act.

The school, which appears to have space and funding for further expansion, is now under the control of Charlotte Haynes and her deputy Sarah Gristwood. An impressive duo, that in their first month have implemented improvements throughout the school. Governors are regularly visible, holding meetings with parents and acting on suggestions made. A PTA is being formed for the first time in years.

What has always been a happy and friendly school is now dynamic and sure to become the best school in North Oxford, without compromise.

Chris and Jo Smith, Oxford