"GOOD and clear leadership" from the acting headteacher of a Worcester school are driving it forward, according to Ofsted inspectors.

Grimley and Holt CE Primary School was given satisfactory ratings in every area of a recent inspection, but was noted to be "getting better" in its report.

The report said: "It has put its unsettled past behind it and is moving forward.

"Parents really appreciate the team work of staff and the strong direction for improvement provided by the acting headteacher.

"They value the school's positive atmosphere, see many developments taking place, and say their children's enjoyment of school is increasing."

But inspectors said a factor preventing teaching from becoming more effective was the level of challenge and support not being closely enough matched to the full range of pupils' needs.

They also said: "While most pupils enjoy school and want to learn, there is a lack of real sparkle and enthusiasm in lessons.

"This is because pupils do not have enough opportunities to take initiative and responsibility as learners."

Inspectors said there was momentum to keep the school moving on and a sense of empowerment among staff and governors. The report said: "This, together with the recent rapid pace of change, shows that the school is securely placed to develop further."

Acting headteacher Richard Kieran, who will take over as substantive head after Easter, said he was delighted with the report.

"I think there's a particularly positive tone about the school at the moment and that will be built upon to drive the school forward so the next inspection can be something we really look forward to and confirms out own self-evaluation," he said.

"I am really proud of the children and the governors and parents, but ultimately the staff have been absolutely tremendous and since I have arrived they have backed me to the hilt and supported me completely.

"As far as I am concerned we have put into place a whole variety of different curricular activities that are making the children smile."

THE REPORT

STAR RATINGSOverall effectiveness: HHII Achievement: ** Pupil development: ** Teaching: ** Curriculum: ** Care and guidance: ** Leadership: **WHAT THE SCHOOL DOES WELL* Pupils behave well.

* School is getting better.

* Standards of achievement are broadly average.

* Good attention to welfare.

* Pupils are confident that they have an adult to turn to should they need advice.

WHAT IT NEEDS TO DO TO IMPROVE* Ensure the level of support and challenge in teaching is closely matched to all pupils' needs.

* Increase opportunities for pupils to use and develop their ICT skills.

* Allow pupils to take initiative and responsibility.