A VILLAGE school has been described by Ofsted and parents as a 'joyful' place led by an 'inspirational headteacher'.

The Ridgeway CE Primary School in Childrey, near Wantage, gained the praise following a short inspection in July.

A letter this week, addressed to the school's head William Webb, confirmed it has maintained its earlier rating of 'good'.

Ofsted's letter stated: "The school is a joyful place. Pupils are bursting with pride in their school and all it has to offer.

"They thrive in a caring community, benefitting from effective teaching complemented by a rich range of after-school activities and visits to places of interest. The school’s core values of ‘caring, perseverance and respect’ permeate school life."

The inspector added that parents 'speak highly' of the school and are 'full of praise' about Mr Webb's leadership.

Her letter added: "One spoke of the 'remarkable changes' you have led in your year and a half as the headteacher.

Comments such as 'I couldn’t recommend this school and its inspirational headteacher more' and 'we feel very lucky that our children are able to attend such a wonderful village school' typified parents’ views."

She said since Mr Webb took up post in January 2017, he has 'brought fresh energy, and insight'.