A RUNCORN school has been hailed as one of the best in the country by Government inspectors.

Pewithall Primary School was judged to be outstanding in every category after an Ofsted team visited with only a few hours notice.

It was ranked 37th in the list of top performing state primary schools in The Sunday Times school guide, up from 50th last year.

It is the fourth year runninng it has been in the top 100.

Lead inspector Marguerite Murphy said: “This is a very happy school.

“All groups of pupils achieve exceptionally well. Their attendance, behaviour and attitudes towards school are outstanding and demonstrate a real love of learning.

“Leadership and management are outstanding.

“The exemplary behaviour and attitudes of pupils contribute to the outstanding, caring ethos of the school.

“The head teacher, staff and governors share a relentless focus on ensuring pupils have equal opportunities to succeed and reach their full potential, both academically and personally.”

Proud head teacher David Baugh said: "We are delighted with the Ofsted judgement as it endorses the outstanding teaching and learning at Pewithall Primary School.

"We are proud of our staff and students’ achievements and we continue to make year on year improvements in every aspect of our work. We are particularly delighted that Ofsted have recognised this.

"Full credit must be given to the commitment and dedication of all our staff, the excellent relations we have with our parents and carers, the leadership and direction from our governing body and of course the terrific enthusiasm and behaviour of our pupils."

Halton Clr Ged Philbin, board member for young people and families, said: said: "Years of hard work by generations of school governors, parents, pupils and teachers alongside a relentless shared vision to succeed, has led to this very positive outcome for the school. The staff are understandably delighted."

Gerald Meehan, Halton Council’s strategic director for children and young people, said: "Well done to everyone concerned. The Ofsted report and being in The Times top school list is a credit to everyone involved at the school."