IMPROVEMENTS at a Bacup primary school have been applauded by education inspectors.

An interesting range of lessons and an impressive performance by staff at St Mary’s RC Primary have earned praised by schools watchdog Ofsted.

Lead inspector Derek Watts said: “Good care, guidance and support contribute well to pupils’ personal development.”

The school, which was given another ‘satisfactory’ rating, was asked to improve attainments levels in English and maths by the end of Year Six.

And the school’s head, Mike Richards, has been advised to strengthen links with parents, to support learning aims and promote good behaviour.