Delighted staff and pupils at Sutton Benger Primary School are celebrating after being declared outstanding in an Ofsted report, just four years after being put into special measures.

Inspectors praised the dynamic leadership shown by headteacher Suzanne Lloyd and deputy Abby Rayner since they joined the school just after it was found to be failing in 2005.

The school swept the board with the quality of teaching and learning, curriculum, achievements and standards and behaviour of the children all considered to be outstanding.

Headteacher Suzanne Lloyd said: “This is fantastic news for the whole school community as it places us amongst the most highly performing schools nationally.

“This is a huge achievement which is as a result of the hard work that has taken place in school over the last four years by a talented and dedicated team of staff, committed and supportive governors and parents, and most importantly of all, our 130 enthusiastic and motivated learners.”

The school saw celebrations with a balloon launch in 2007 when government inspectors declared it to be out of special measures.

Chair of governors Rod Moor-Bardell said: “I am delighted the Inspectors have recognised the hard work of staff, pupils, parents, current and past governors.

“Congratulations are due to Suzanne Lloyd and her team who have brought the school so far in just four years.

“I look forward to the school maintaining and developing on what is now a very strong foundation.

“The imagination, creativity and energy at the school is very evident and we can be proud of our children and their achievements.”

Last week children again released rainbow coloured balloons symbolising their success and hopes for the future.

A special treat was also planned when a helicopter flew over the playing field to take photographs of the children making a symbol of heart and hands before the pilots led an assembly.