From David Hutchings, Exeter 382594, February 28, 2008

A SOUTH DEVON primary has won the highest possible accolade from education inspectors who have judged it an outstanding school.

They say both the achievement and standards and the personal development and well-being of the pupils at Chudleigh Church of England Primary are outstanding.

Children start at the school with attainment which is just above national expectations.

But, by the time they leave at 11, they are achieving standards which put the school in the top 10 per cent nationally.

With 347 pupils, the school is comparatively big but the inspectors say it has established a caring and supportive environment.

"This is an outstanding school," they say. "It has many strengths, most notable of which is the warm and welcoming ethos conveyed by all members of the school community.

"Pupils flourish in the school's supportive environment. Their polite manners and their kindness and consideration towards each other set the tone of the school and are evident from the moment you step inside the door.

"Their positive attitude in lessons is a major contributory factor to their excellent academic progress.

"Pupils clearly enjoy school tremendously and appreciate the wide range of opportunities provided for them."

The three inspectors from the school standards agency Ofsted spent two days at Chudleigh last month and their report has just been published.

Their plaudits are a fitting tribute to Chudleigh headteacher Mike Tudor who is retiring this summer after almost 25 years leading the school.

The inspectors comment: "He has given unstinting service to the school for over two decades.

"He has been particularly effective in building a committed and united group of staff who each make valuable contributions to the life of the school.

"Senior leaders and subject managers are focused on improvement whilst maintaining a warm, inclusive approach and a desire to develop the whole child."

One parent spoke for the many very appreciative families and told the inspectors: "All staff at the school show interest and genuine care for the well-being of the whole child."

The inspectors say the school is clear about maintaining its current high standards and raising them further.

"It is well placed to build even further on its significant strengths," they say.

To do this the school should continue to improve pupils' progress in writing and ensure that expectations of pupils are always high enough.

Headteacher Mike Tudor said: "I am delighted Ofsted has recognised Chudleigh as an outstanding school and I am very proud of all its achievements.

"In particular, I want to praise all the staff for their dedication and effectiveness, our parents, governors and local community for their support and appreciation but especially all the pupils who delighted the inspectors with their behaviour, their positive attitudes to learning and each other and the outstanding progress they make right across the school.

"I will be retiring in July after more than 24 years as headteacher and I am very proud to have led such an outstanding school.

"Not only do we ensure pupils make outstanding academic progress but our commitment to their personal development and well-being is also outstanding."

NOTE TO NEWS EDS: For more information and to arrange pictures, contact Mike Tudor on 01626 852147.