PUPILS at a West Devon village primary school are exceptionally well cared for and achieve high academic standards, according to education inspectors.

They say the 44 pupils at Boasley Cross Primary School are happy, work hard and achieve well.

The report said: 'This is a good school. Teaching throughout the school is consistently good with some outstanding elements.

'Pupils' behaviour is outstanding and contributes extremely well to the purposeful atmosphere in classrooms and to their good progress. Attainment is rising throughout the school.

'Pupils are exceptionally well cared for and the quality of care and guidance across the school is outstanding.'

Joyce Cox, from the school standards agency Ofsted, spent two days inspecting Boasley Cross last month and her report has just been published.

She lists 28 separate judgements on the work of the school with 17 areas rated as good and 11 as outstanding.

Ms Cox said one parent told her: 'I think this school is fantastic. My child is thriving.'

She says this comment summed up the vast majority of parents' views after they responded to her questionnaire in unusually high numbers.

Ms Cox said children start school with skills similar to those expected for their age.

They get off to a flying start in the early years foundation stage and make outstanding progress because of the high quality teaching and provision.

'Staff make learning fun and extremely enjoyable and really challenge children to think and work together well,' she said.

Throughout the school, the teaching and curriculum are good and pupils' learning experiences are considerably enriched by an extensive range of visits, clubs and visitors to the school.

And the school 'adds value' so well that the children are reaching above average standards by the time they finish in Year 6.

Ms Cox said the leadership and management of headteacher Alison Ewen is good and effective.

'She has successfully fostered a dedicated staff with a shared vision and a clear understanding of what needs to be done to maintain and improve pupils' achievement,' she said.

'The governing body offers good support to the school.'

Because of all this, Ms Cox said the school was well placed to get even better in the future.

To improve further, the school should make more use of its outdoor learning environment and link up with a school in a contrasting location so pupils can improve their knowledge and understanding of being part of the UK.

Mrs Ewen said: 'I am delighted that this report has recognised the outstanding talents of my staff and their commitment in delivering the very best education for our children.

'We are very well supported by our parents and governors all, of which helps provide a caring and effective learning environment in which our happy and motivated children thrive.

'My long term aim is to create a truly outstanding school and it is pleasing to note that we have already achieved this in many areas.'