The headteacher of an "outstanding" school in St Albans said the classification is testament to the efforts of all the staff, pupils and parents.

Jane Whitehurst’s comments come after an Ofsted report awarded Wheatfields Infants and Nursery School the top rating, after a two day visit in September - eight days into the new term.

The education watchdog observed 15 lessons at the school in Downes Road, five of which were with the Headteacher and senior leaders.

Inspectors said the headteacher has established a culture where "nothing less than the best" is accepted. Headteacher Jane Whitehurst said she was "absolutely delighted" with the outcome of the inspection, particularly as it comes at the beginning of a year of celebration for the school’s 50th anniversary.

She said: "As a school we have worked extremely hard to ensure all our children make excellent progress and that many exceed national expectations."

Inspectors said pupils have clear and understandable targets that support them in being able to build on their learning and make outstanding progress during their time at the school.

Mrs Whitehurst added: "Our high expectations have led to all our children being successful in their learning.

"We have developed our curriculum to engage and challenge our children and all our children see themselves as learners. We use both the outside and the inside to stimulate the children as well as focused immersion days to inspire questions and interest."

The report said learning is enriched by many memorable events, work engages children’s imaginations, challenges their thinking and deepens their understanding of new ideas.

They also said pupils were very polite and well-mannered and learnt to work constructively together from the time they join the Nursery.

The school has three forms and a nursery. Mrs Whitehurst continued: "We teach the children to keep safe from the moment they arrive in school. We are able to extend that learning through the use of The Forest School environment which all children have access to on a regular basis.

"Our children are able to take on different roles in school from the more traditional school council and sustainable ambassadors to our ‘squabble squashers at lunchtime who help to resolve problems."

Under the new Ofsted framework the Early Years part of the school is now judged separately. This judgement was also outstanding.

Chair of Governors Roger Thomas said: "High expectations, a clear shared vision and the importance of a school working well as a team has contributed significantly to this outcome.

"Everybody works extremely closely sharing ideas and supporting each other, from the Governors and the Senior Team to the teaching and support teams."