Black Country primary moved out of special measures

Villiers Primary School in Bilston was considered to be one of the most successful in Wolverhampton and was classed as outstanding by Ofsted in 2007.

But 18 months ago inspectors returned to school and criticised it for falling into decline.

Now following a further visit last month it has been upgraded and is now classed as requiring improvement, with some areas judged as 'good'.

Inspectors noted a significant improvement in pupil achievement in national assessments at the 620-pupil school, while phonics and maths teaching at Key Stage 1 were praised.

Lead inspector Rachel Howie wrote in her report: "This is an improving school. Leaders, staff and governors are committed to ensuring that improvement continues.

"The headteacher and senior leaders are making changes that are improving the quality of teaching. This is helping pupils to make faster progress than in the past."

The report also said that effective coaching and training was leading to improvements in the quality of teaching. Nursery and reception children were said to get off to a good start 'because of effective teaching'.

Headteacher Duncan Cocker said: "It has been a hard but ultimately rewarding last 18 months since going into special measures. The report reflects the great strides made in advancing teaching and learning and the dedication of a committed and talented staff and supportive governors who are focused on improving the provision for all children, every day.

"It was particularly gratifying to see the area of early years be awarded a 'good' judgement, confirming the excellent start we know our children receive at Villiers."

Pupil behaviour was also praised in the report. The lead inspector wrote: "Pupils behave well, they are kind and caring towards one another and are respectful towards adults. Pupils enjoy school and trust the adults to look after them."

The report highlighted a number of areas that inspectors deemed to require improvement. These included the slow progress of pupils in maths at Key Stage 2 and inconsistencies in the quality of marking in pupils' books.

Mr Cocker added: "Whilst we are naturally pleased to have removed the school from special measures we are all very clear about the areas to improve in.

"We will work diligently to ensure standards continue to rise so that all areas of the school can be judged as 'good' and that our school remains a vital beacon of success in the local community."