Carlinghow Princess Royal Junior, Infant and Nursery School was placed in special measures in November 2005 because Ofsted inspectors judged "it was failing to provide an acceptable standard of education for its pupils".

But when the inspectors returned this year, they all agreed the school, on Ealand Road, now provides a satisfactory education for its pupils.

In their report, just published, they said pupils clearly demonstrate their pleasure to be part of an improving school and parents are pleased with how much is on offer to their children.

The inspectors said the leadership of headteacher Christine Jones, who took up the post a year ago, "has been pivotal to its improvement".

They described how pupils enjoyed school, showed positive attitudes to their work, behaved well and showed consideration for classmates. Inspectors were particularly impressed with pupils' maturity, self-confidence and sense of pride.

Although the inspectors describe standards as below average overall, they said the school was clearly improving and achievement was now satisfactory. This, they said, was a significant improvement as a result of much better teaching, particularly in years five and six.

Headteacher Mrs Jones said: "I am delighted for the staff, the governors, parents and children that the school has come out of special measures. We are all proud of our school and the improvements we have made.

"It is reassuring to hear from the inspectors who have been visiting us since 2005 that we are beginning to make a difference to the achievements of the children.

"We are well aware that we still have some way to go but we can take confidence from the assessment of the inspectors that the plans and strategies we have put in place are on the right lines."

John Broadhead, chairman of governors said: "We are all pleased the combined efforts of the school and its governors have turned a failing school into one the community can have trust in and know that it is a school where their children can thrive.

"I am proud to have been part of Carlinghow School's success and would like to thank my fellow governors for their commitment, Mrs Jones for her vision and drive and the staff for making this happen.

"The past two years have not been easy but the efforts of the children and the support of their parents have been a joy to see and have made this such a worthwhile task."