A BASINGSTOKE infant school is celebrating a successful Ofsted inspection.

The government inspectors had little to criticise and plenty to praise when they visited Merton Infant School, in Popley, earlier this year.

Inspectors said the school has shown "good improvement" since its last inspection in July 1998.

The report starts with the statements: "The school's effectiveness is good and it provides good value for money.

"Good teaching ensures that the pupils achieve well in relation to their ability.

"Standards, though generally below average, are improving faster than the national trend.

"The very good leadership of the headteacher has been a key factor in the school's improvement."

The only weakness highlighted is that attendance is unsatisfactory.

In their report, the inspectors state that 48 per cent of pupils are on the school's register of special educational needs, which is well above average.

Pupils' standards are above average in IT, music and PE, average in most other subjects, but below average in writing in comparison to other similar schools.

Headteacher Lynn Clement said: "We are thrilled with the Ofsted report. We work hard to ensure that all our pupils achieve to the best of their ability.

"We are continually thinking of ways of making the curriculum exciting and fun for the children."

Cllr George Hood, chairman of governors, added: "The governing body is delighted with the Ofsted report. We are very proud of all the staff, children and parents, who continually strive to improve standards through their enthusiasm and hard work."