THE smallest school in Dorset is celebrating some very big achievements this year - not least a glowing Ofsted report.

Powerstock School has earned The Activemark Award for the exceptional delivery of PE within the National School Sport Strategy, Healthy Schools Status, an outstanding inspection report from the Diocese of Salisbury and an Ofsted report which has graded the school as good overall and outstanding for pupil wellbeing and personal development.

Headteacher Claire Briden said: "We are extremely proud of our achievements and the way in which all members of the school community work together to create a happy, lively and successful school."

Mrs Briden was praised in the Ofsted report for her leadership in building a strong team who share her vision and for steering the school out of a turbulent past.

Ofsted inspector Eileen Chadwick said: "The headteacher provides very good leadership.

"Her enthusiasm, vision, commitment and management skills are central to improvements being made."

Mrs Chadwick praised the good teaching supported by a stimulating and broad curriculum sparking pupils' enjoyment in learning.

But although lessons were well planned and pupils are very clear about what they need to do to improve, in mathematics, activities are occasionally too hard for those pupils who find learning difficult, or are too easy for the higher-attaining pupils.

The report also praised the pupils: "Their behaviour is exemplary in and around the school.

"Throughout the school, pupils show kindness and respect for each other regardless of age and ability. They accept each other's differences and talents and give a warm welcome to newcomers and visitors."