A CATHOLIC primary school in York has passed its Ofsted inspection with flying colours.

English Martyrs' RC Primary, in Holgate, has 202 pupils on its roll and inspectors deemed it "a good school with several outstanding features".

Ralph Higgs, reporting inspector, said:"Good leadership and teaching, coupled with an interesting and relevant curriculum, and excellent standards of care and support help bring about the school's success.

"Pupils learn a great deal, and not just about their subjects, which results in outstanding personal development.

"Pupils develop excellent attitudes to learning and strive to do their best. As a result, they reach above average standards and achieve well.

"Parents fully recognise these qualities and are strongly supportive of the school's efforts. They typically praise the school for being, in their words, a positive, caring community'.

"Pupils have a good understanding of what they are expected to learn in lessons because of the clear direction given by teachers."

Mr Higgs said the school could make some improvements by further involving pupils more consistently in the assessment and evaluation of their work so that they acquire a good understanding of how to improve its quality.

He also said he wanted to extend the good work being done by subject leaders in improving subjects such as English and mathematics to the leadership of all subjects.

Head teacher Derek Sutherland said: "We are delighted with the inspection.

"The report is a very fair reflection on the school. The inspector was very positive about the school.

"A lot of hard work went in to get this result and everybody - staff, parents and pupils - deserve thanks for that."

The Press reported yesterday that Government plans to create schools equipped for 21st century teaching and learning could see York receive up to £37 million for the period 2009-22, with around £8 million in the first four years alone.

This would provide for a new school - either a new-build or a major refurbishment and extension to an existing building - to enable a merger of Our Lady's RC and English Martyrs' RC Schools.