OFSTED inspectors have praised rising standards at Downton School and the leadership of new headteacher Jenny Lawrie.

In a report following their visit to the school, the leader of the 12-strong inspection team, said:

"This is one school that really is improving rapidly, under the very good leadership of the new headteacher, whose vision for further development is supported by both the school and the local community."

The report continued: "The school's focus on raising attainment through the development of teaching and learning is having a good effect. Teaching is sound and standards are really starting to rise."

From the 40-page report, a number of desired improvements have been identified, all of which the senior leadership team at the school had already targeted in the school improvement plan. The recommended improvements include:

to continue raising the standards of literacy by encouraging pupils to read and write more in all subjects;

to increase pupils' aspirations through setting higher achievable targets;

to raise standards of attainment by the end of both stages 3 and 4;

to continue improving attendance and punctuality;

to provide better accommodation for drama and physical education

The inspectors felt that teaching at the school was sound and that, overall, the quality of the education was satisfactory.

They particularly felt that the pupils were well equipped to understand right and wrong and to respect the beliefs of others.

They also said that Downton School helped its pupils to take responsibility for life in its community, along with having a sense of spiritual awareness.

The inspectors felt that the level of attendance had been unsatisfactory - but were pleased to note that the headteacher had asked for the parents' help in improving this.

The "poor and unreliable" bus service provided by Wilts & Dorset was particularly singled out for criticism by the Ofsted inspectors, who stated that "punctuality was hampered" because of the company's unreliable and lacklustre service.

Commenting on the Ofsted report, headteacher Jenny Lawrie said: "This excellent beginning to life at Downton will be extended as the students move up the school.

"The future is very bright for students here."

The school's governing body said it was delighted with the overall results of the inspection, and has called on all the school's supporters to help improve certain areas - particularly as specialist school status is actively being sought, and higher goals are now being set for students.

Chairman of governors Ceri Hurford-Jones said: "This Ofsted report is not the end but the beginning of the future for us here at Downton School.

"We have a wonderful school here.

"Together we shall achieve much more."

He said the school's building project was well under way and should be completed by Easter.