STAFF and pupils at a Pershore school are celebrating after picking up a number of good' grades in their latest Ofsted report.

Inspectors have judged Abbey Park Middle School as satisfactory' overall but praised the school in a number of areas.

They said: "The school has some good features and is improving under the resolute and effective leadership of the headteacher, who is providing the school with a sense of purpose and clear direction."

The school was given satisfactory' ratings for overall effectiveness, achievement and standards, and teaching and learning. But it was deemed good' for personal development, curriculum, care and guidance and leadership and management.

Headteacher Lynn Evans said: "I am delighted that the Ofsted team recognise the caring and supportive climate of this friendly school. We believe our pupils make remarkable progress and wish that the data could reflect the full range of their achievements from year 5 to year 7. As one of our parents said: Abbey Park Middle School is one of Worcestershire's best kept secrets'."

The inspectors' report said: "Personal development is good and pupils thrive in the school's happy and friendly atmosphere. They are confident, articulate and polite. Behaviour is good and has improved as a consequence of teachers' better class management and the introduction of popular rewards for good behaviour."

"Pupils feel very safe in school. They enjoy all aspects of school, for instance meeting friends, their lessons and the many clubs and visits on offer as part of the good curriculum. They are keen to learn and try hard because their enthusiastic teachers provide interesting work that engages them well."

However, the inspectors said teachers at the school do not always plan work to match the learning needs of each pupil, especially those who are more able. They said: "This means that some pupils are not sufficiently stretched by their work.

There are many signs that teaching is improving. For example, teachers plan work that actively involves pupils in their learning by providing time for them to discuss ideas in pairs and to learn through trial and error."

The inspectors also praised the governors.

They said: "Governors are very supportive and work hard on behalf of the school.

"They have a clear grasp of the quality of education the school provides."