HARDWORKING staff and caring pupils have helped pull a school out of the doldrums.

Ian Janman, headteacher of Aloeric County Primary School in Melksham, praised the teamwork which has seen Ofsted inspectors lift the 'serious weaknesses' measures they imposed in 2001.

Weaknesses highlighted in a report then included poor standards of teaching, leadership and management.

Inspectors returned during the first week of June and found conditions were improving rapidly. They praised teaching methods, pupil achievement and the effective leadership now shown.

Mr Janman, who joined the school in April last year, said: "I knew it was going to be a challenge before I came. Serious weaknesses is one up from special measures but it is not a good thing to be put into.

"We have had quite a turnover in staff which has been beneficial. New teachers have worked hard because they have not enjoyed having the label of serious weaknesses.

"Governors and parents have been very supportive and the kids have enormous pride in their school. It has been a team effort and we are looking forward to next year."

To help celebrate the school's success, Mr Janman organised an old time music hall, which entertained parents for three nights last week.

Pupils, parents, staff and governors performed songs from the Victorian and Edwardian age right up to the modern day.

A non-uniform day and makeover, held during the last week of term, raised money for Cancer Research and Guide Dogs for the Blind.