A Weymouth school has been given top marks by inspectors.

Beechcroft Community Infant School was praised for being "most effective at providing a good education to enrich pupils' needs", according to its latest Ofsted report.

Inspectors found that high attitudes of care provided by the Corporation Road school ensured very good behaviour, relationships and attitudes to learning.

The report highlighted that pupils' standards in reading, mathematics, art and design, design and technology and physical education were above average and good teaching ensured that pupils made progress in their learning. It said the provision for pupils with special educational needs was also very good and the pupils were able to make good progress.

Headteacher Joyce Brown was singled out for praise along with her staff: "The very good headteacher leads with imagination as well as purpose and is strongly supported by a talented deputy and a hard-working, closely-knit team."

Teachers were commended for high expectations of pupils' performances, management of behaviour and knowledge and understanding of subjects.

The report also said the governing body fulfilled its responsibilities "to a high standard" and the school had seen "good improvement" since its last inspection in 1998.

The inspectors highlighted areas that could be improved including the development of pupil's speech and oral communication, aspects of pupils' writing, including the joining up of handwriting, and challenging higher attaining pupils in science.

Mrs Brown said these areas would be included in the governing body's action plan. She said: "What a fantastic springboard to 2003, a landmark year for Beechcroft and we look forward to continued success."

Chairman of governors Julia Moore added: "This very positive and encouraging report has only been made possible through the strong leadership of the headteacher and her deputy Lin Goldsmith and the hard work of a committed team of staff, parents and governors."