Pupils at St Michael's Primary School celebrate their achievement with headteacher Beverley Martin (17066)A PRIMARY school taken out of special measures nine months early has been celebrating its remarkable turnaround.

St Michael's Primary School, Melksham, was placed under special measures by government inspectors in November 2003, after concerns were raised about the standard of education.

A report issued after an inspection in February and March said the school no longer required special measures. Inspectors praised headteacher Beverley Martin for providing focused leadership and a settled teaching style, coming after long periods of instability at the 185-pupil school in Queensway.

The report said overall standards in the core subjects remained low but good progress had been made in management, leadership, the curriculum and assessments. Quality of teaching was classed as good.

Mrs Martin said she was delighted the school had pulled itself out of special measures.

"I am thrilled that Her Majesty's Inspectorate have recognised how far the school has come," she said.

"Removing us from special measures nine months early is testament to the hard work of the staff and the children's desire to get the very best from the education offered.

"I am pleased that the behaviour in classes and around the school was considered very good and that our pupils concentrate hard, co-operate well and take responsibility for their own conduct."

Jenny Clements, chair of governors, said: "As governors we are very proud of where our school is today, and we are looking forward with great excitement to September, and the opportunities afforded at The Manor School."

St Michael's and Lowbourne Junior School will merge to become The Manor in time for the new school year, with classes held at both locations. One site will be sold, with Lowbourne's Ruskin Avenue site the favourite.