STAFF and pupils at a primary school in Northumberland are celebrating after receiving a 'Good' rating from Ofsted in a remarkable turnaround after it was previously judged inadequate.

Inspectors praised pupils' behaviour and work ethic at Whitfield C of E Primary School among other commendations.

The inspection, which took place on November 9 and 10, found the school gain 'good' ratings in the categories of quality of education, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision.

The school, which has 23 pupils, was rated 'outstanding' in the category of behaviour and attitudes.

The report said: "Pupils thrive at this welcoming school. Staff expect pupils to behave well and work hard in lessons.

"Pupils respond with a strong work ethic and their behaviour is exemplary."

The inspection was the school's first since it joined the Diocese of Carlisle's multi-academy trust, the Good Shepherd Trust, in 2017 following a successful community campaign to keep the 260-year-old village school open.

The school had been rated 'Inadequate' following an inspection in 2016.

The latest report stated that pupils said they cannot remember a time when other pupils bullied them, and described the school as "like a family", saying that "everyone looks after each other".

The report added: "Pupils' behaviour is impeccable in lessons, in the playground and around school. Pupils are incredibly polite and respectful to each other, adults and visitors."

Katherine Ayre, Head of School at Whitfield C of E Primary School, said: "The staff and I were so thrilled to receive such a glowing report about our lovely school.

"It has taken many hours of dedication and commitment to bring us from Inadequate to Good with Outstanding features.

"The Ofsted team confirmed what we know about the children in our school; they are thoughtful, hardworking, full of life and fun and they thrive together here."

Rob Blake, the school's Executive Headteacher, added he was "beyond delighted" to hear of their new Ofsted rating and said it "very much belongs" to the school.

Mr Blake said their plans going forward include installing a daily mile track around their field, as well as a new woodland classroom.

"We're really looking forward to the future with great optimism," he said.