STAFF at Calne's John Bentley are celebrating after Ofsted inspectors described it as an exceedingly good school.

Inspectors said the school's standards were constantly rising, there were no significant areas for improvement, the school atmosphere was friendly and welcoming and there was no evidence of bullying.

Head teacher Anne Burrell said: "We are delighted that our recent Ofsted inspection has concluded what many of us knew already.

"The John Bentley School is, in the words of the chief inspector, an exceedingly good school."

The report said the standard of teaching was very high and students were being encouraged to achieve more than they ever thought possible.

Mrs Burrell said: "The standards achieved by students are constantly rising and all students are valued equally. This rise in standards is in part due to the fact the overall quality of teaching and learning is high.

"Teaching is not only consistently good, but all subject areas demonstrate teaching of the highest quality. Students are able to focus on their learning as the school has been viewed as successful in ensuring their care, welfare, safety and security.

"This results in students who are lively, confident and mature and well able to take and learn from responsibility," she said.

One year nine student even told an inspector: "The teachers here are brilliant."

The school's sixth form came in for particular praise, and it was noted students were encouraged to make the intellectual, creative and physical effort needed to make good progress.

Mrs Burrell added: "Ofsted concluded that there were no major areas for improvement. However, there will be no complacency. There is still much we need and want to do, to build on our current successes."

The report is expected to be made available to parents within the next few days.

Meanwhile, staff at Derry Hill Primary School are also celebrating a report which described it as a good school with some significant strengths.

Head teacher John Bellamy said he was delighted.

He said: "The inspectors recognised that the overall teaching was good," he said.

The report said students were achieving above average standards in several subjects, and in maths, English and history, 11 year-olds are achieving well above average.

The school's strong Christian ethos, friendly and welcoming atmosphere and community links were also praised.