EDUCATION inspectors have handed a glowing report to Kinlet Primary School.

An Ofsted inspection found it to have "significant strengths and only minor weaknesses".

The document, compiled after a visit to the Shropshire school in March, said pupils excelled in English, maths and science.

It also praised the standard of teaching for youngsters with special educational needs and applauded staff for maintaining a "very well led and managed" school.

Only standards in design and technology and IT were deemed to be below par.

Headteacher Dick Skilton said: "I am pleased this report acknowledges fully the achievements of everyone connected with the school.

"I am gratified the inspectors recognised our success in making the very best of our strengths as a small rural school."

The school accommodates only 35 pupils, a third of whom have special educational needs.

These children were well catered for, the report said, "in terms of their personal, social and emotional development".

Pupils received a "good curriculum" while high-achieving youngsters were allowed to make progress by being set "challenging work".

An excellent team spirit existed between staff who worked to ensure the school got "the best value from its budget".

"Pupils treat each other with respect and make every effort to make new pupils and those with special educational needs feel welcome," the report continued.

Progress in information technology by pupils in Key Stage 2 needed work while weaknesses were identified in design and technology, a point highlighted by the previous school inspection in 1997.