A report out this week shows a Borehamwood school to be above the national average in some areas of teaching.

OFSTED inspectors praised Meryfield First School in Theobald Street, saying it was caring, positive and a lovely environment for children to learn in.

"We are very happy about the report," said head Anne Wesley. "It's wonderful to have recognition for the work we are doing. I think the thing we are most proud of is that it does show that our teaching is of a very high standard. It is also nice to be noted for the way our pupils are progressing."

The school, which teaches four to nine-year-olds, was shown to be in line with or above the national average in all subjects apart from information technology where at present attainment is low. This is due to the school needing more money for better computer equipment.

Although many of the children on entry to the nursery have below national average levels of attainment, their personal development, knowledge, understanding and skills were shown to have improved immensely by the time they reach the end of the reception year.

The inspectors found the school, which was built in 1954, made good provision for pupils' spiritual, moral, and social development.

Mrs Wesley said: "It's nice to be noted not just for academic attainment, but also for the clear moral code we teach and the emphasis on caring for each other.

"You can tell when you walk in that our school is one which improves children's self-confidence and provides an environment in which their sense of personal worth is enhanced and valued."

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