EASTFIELD Infant and Nursery School in St Ives is so exciting that one little boy was counting down the time at half-term until he could go back to school, according to his mum. The school has just been graded outstanding – the top mark – by Ofsted, the O

EASTFIELD Infant and Nursery School in St Ives is so exciting that one little boy was counting down the time at half-term until he could go back to school, according to his mum.

The school has just been graded outstanding - the top mark - by Ofsted, the Office for Standards in Education on all the sections, the school is examined in.

The report says that staff have consistently high expectations of what the children can achieve. Children produce their own risk assessment for school trips which provides an outstanding focus on how to stay safe, the report says. Staff take notice of the children's ideas put forward by the school council - and: "Children are not treated as babies but as enthusiastic learners."

The school, which has beacon status, provides an outstanding quality of education, says the report which gives Eastfield the highest grade, outstanding, throughout. For: achievement and standards, the children's personal development and well-being, teaching and learning, its curriculum, care guidance and support and in the leadership of the head.

It describes headteacher, Elaine Lynch, as "a pivotal force in continuing to move the school forward." It adds: "She took over a school recognised with Beacon status but she has not allowed the simply maintain the many previous strengths. All staff and governors are fully involved in an exemplary programme or rigorously monitoring the quality of education."

The report says: "The personal development of children is outstanding. They really enjoy their time in school and want to succeed . . . they enjoy their lovely new school lunches."

It also refers to "stunning displays of exceptional artwork". However, the report notes attendance is adversely affected by families who choose to take holidays in term time. It recommends that levels of attendance be raised.

The school's before and after school club, Club4U, and its playgroup are graded as good.

"The children enjoy making use of the excellent range of resources. They are occupied well and show high levels of interest and concentration in what they do. There are good opportunities for children to play quietly by themselves, in pairs and in small groups." It adds: "Children say they thoroughly enjoy their time in the den. Their behaviour is excellent and there are positive and supportive relationships that help children thrive in their play."

INFORMATION: Eastfield Infant and Nursery School has 265 children on the roll aged from three to seven and 33 children for day care.