NEWNHAM Junior School has been rated 'outstanding' by the education inspector Ofsted.

The school in Newnham Avenue, Eastcote, received top marks for pupil achievement and behaviour - an improvement from when it was rated 'good' overall at the last inspection in 2006.

Headteacher, Kulvinder Nahal, who was promoted to the job in 2008, told the Gazette: "We are delighted with the Ofsted report and very happy that they recognised the strong school community.

"Since the last inspection we have looked a lot more closely at each child to make sure they are monitored and we meet their needs."

In the report, inspector Keith Sadler wrote: "Pupils of all backgrounds and abilities are fully involved in all that the school has to offer and they all are treated as unique individuals.

"This is because the staff place the children's welfare and well-being at the heart of its provision. Consequently, the care, guidance and support provided are outstanding.

"Parents and carers are overwhelmingly supportive and many wrote fulsome comments about how pleased they are to have chosen the school for their children and how much they enjoy school."

Mr Sadler also praised the leadership of the school and the varied curriculum. He added: "By the time that they reach Year 6, pupils have developed into mature and confident young people with high self-esteem.

"They are prepared exceptionally well for their move to secondary school and life beyond."