OFSTED inspectors found some outstanding teaching when they visited a church school.

Their visit to Willaston Church of England Primary on Neston Road, Willaston, came at two days notice.

The voluntary-controlled school has 190 children on roll aged four-11.

Since a previous inspection of the smaller than average school, there have been ‘significant’ staff changes including a new deputy headteacher, according to their report.

Rating Willaston as a ‘good’ school, the inspectors say teaching has very positive features and some is outstanding.

The curriculum is a rich and varied and attendance is consistently high.

Leaders at the school acknowledge its overall effectiveness is not outstanding, as they are striving for, ‘as there is still much to do’.

Since the last inspection attainment has risen steadily and is above-average in English and maths with far more pupils than is expected gaining higher levels in these subjects.

At Key Stage 2 the youngsters’ progress is never less than good and is sometimes rapid as their teachers have consistently high expectations of what the children can achieve.

The inspectors say the children’s behaviour is good and during school assemblies it is often exemplary

Older pupils frequently act as a buddies to younger ones, enhancing the school’s family ethos.

Leaders and managers at all levels are effective.

All pupils read regularly and by the time they leave their reading is above average.

Most parents and carers believe their children make good progress and the school meets their children’s particular needs.

They also describe teaching as good.

In almost all lessons new technology is used effectively and the pupils enjoy using laptops, digital cameras and other electronic equipment.

Headteacher Julie Chambers is said to provide clear leadership and the actively involved and well informed governing body holds the school to account.

The inspectors asked the school to increased the rate of progress made by Key Stage 1 pupils in reading, writing and maths.

In a letter to the children, lead inspector Denise Shields said: “You can all play your part in helping the school to get even better by continuing to work hard.”