A HARPENDEN primary school has been praised in a recent Ofsted report as being an "effective school with many strengths and several outstanding features."

Inspectors were particularly impressed by the attitude and behaviour of pupils at Manland Primary School, Sauncey Avenue, even going so far as to describe the children's enthusiasm as infectious.

Headteacher Vicky Parsey said the report was a direct result of the hard work and dedication of the staff coupled with the positive attitudes of the pupils.

The report said the school had "a strong ethos and atmosphere for learning where pupils are encouraged to do their best and their work is valued highly."

The last Ofsted report at the school was in 1997 and inspectors confirmed that there had been significant improvements since then.

Chairman of governors Richard Johnston said: "Before the inspection started the school had already identified any areas that needed improvements and took action."

July 4, 2002 10:00