The headteacher of a "good" South Oxhey primary school has praised its remarkable progression over such a short period as its latest Ofsted report is revealed.

David Smith’s comments come after inspectors from the education watchdog judged that Oxhey Wood Primary School, in Oxhey Drive, no longer "requires improvement".

Inspectors visited the school on April 24 and 25 and its latest report was published this week.

Two inspections prior to April’s visit, Ofsted officials gave the school the lowest rating of four, which deemed it "inadequate".

Mr Smith, who became headteacher about two years ago, welcomed the report, which he says reflects the enormous progress the school has made.

He said: "We have come a long way in a very short time."

Mr Smith added: "Two inspections ago the school failed big time. All our hard work is now paying off. From here we need to consolidate where we are and push on.

"We have got to make sure that the progress children are making is routinely checked. Year on year we have got to make sure that all the progress across the school, from nursery up to Year 6, continues."

Inspectors said the school is "good" because of the strong leadership from the headteacher and other senior management, which "has brought about rapid improvements to achievement and teaching".

The report goes on to state that all groups of pupils progress well in reading, writing and mathematics and that students enjoy school.

Inspectors added: "Relationships between adults and pupils are excellent, with the result that pupils behave well at all times and in a variety of circumstances."

Oxhey Wood Primary School teaches more than 300 pupils between the ages of three and 11.

The proportion of disabled pupils and those who have education special needs supported by school action is more than double the national average.

Mr Smith has commended the commitment of staff, explaining new teachers appointed had made a "big difference" to the school’s improved Ofsted rating.

Schools are assessed in four categories. Oxhey Wood received a level two "good" rating in the achievement of pupils, the quality of teaching, the behaviour and safety of pupils and leadership and management.

The report explains that the school is not yet "outstanding" because: "More able pupils are sometimes not given enough help and guidance to them in attaining the higher levels, particularly in writing."

It was also noted that some students still arrive late at school, despite attendance rising recently.