A VILLAGE school near Oxford has impressed Ofsted with its 'industrious yet joyful atmosphere'.

Beckley CE Primary School has been rated 'good' by the education watchdog following a short inspection in November.

A letter sent to the school's headteacher Mark Szortowski last week stated: "Staff, pupils, and most parents and carers praise the quality of education the school provides.

"Pupils are nurtured and cared for well. Most are keen to succeed and contribute well in class.

"Across your school there is an industrious yet joyful atmosphere.

"Pupils relish the additional opportunities provided."

The 127-pupil school in Beckley was last visited by Ofsted in 2015, when it was also rated 'good', and Mr Szortowski has since taken up post.

The inspector's letter added: "After you joined the school as headteacher two years ago, you initiated some far-reaching and effective changes.

"You restructured the workforce, strengthened safeguarding, developed opportunities for learning in the early years outdoor play area, and improved the teaching of phonics.

"One parent commented that the school’s leaders 'have created a kind, nurturing and rich learning environment for all of the children.'"

Ofsted also praised the 'impressive' governance and said Mr Szortowski's 'personal investment' in making the school a safe place.