A SCHOOL in South Oxford has upheld its high standards after welcoming a new headteacher.

St Ebbe's CE Aided Primary School in Whitehouse Road has received a new Ofsted report, following a short inspection last month, and has maintained its earlier rating of 'good'.

A letter sent to headteacher Tina Farr, published yesterday, said: "With the support of a highly experienced deputy headteacher, you have continued to build on the successful work of the previous headteacher.

"You have built upon existing strengths and have already introduced improvements."

Mrs Farr became head of the 358-pupil school in September, and is in the process of implementing a new curriculum.

Ofsted's letter said: "Parents are highly supportive of the school.

"They appreciate the previous headteacher’s work to introduce improvements within the school and are highly complimentary about the immediate impact you have had.

"One parent, echoing the views of many, said: ‘I’m impressed at the start made by the new headteacher. The staff seem energised by her vision for the school.’"

The inspector said writing has improved and results are now well above the national average.

The report added: "You are also determined that the curriculum fully utilises Oxford’s unique local environment.

"Plans shared with me during the inspection certainly have the potential to energise pupils’ learning and enable them to experience memorable activities and visits."

Ofsted also noted that pupils, staff and parents feel safe in the school, and that governors play an effective role in 'challenging leaders' and asking 'pertinent questions'.