A SCHOOL threatened with closure three years ago is making great strides according to its latest Ofsted report.

Inspectors said there had been good improvement at Foley Park First School since its last inspection in November 2001 when it was taken out of special measures.

Headteacher Carol Hine was also praised for the leadership brought to the school following her appointment in January 2001.

The inspectors reported the school was rightly proud of the good quality of care provided for pupils and said provision for children with special educational needs was a strength.

There were also very good links with the community that enriched pupils' experiences.

But they added that standards were still not high enough and were well below average in English and mathematics.

Reception class teaching was unsatisfactory which inspectors blamed on ineffective leadership and management of the Foundation Stage.

The report added there were not enough well-planned opportunities for pupils to work independently in lessons.

Mrs Hine said: "We will ensure we build on what has rightly been recognised as very good practice and take appropriate action to address those areas that we are aware need to be improved. With this report, Ofsted has given us a passport to fly."