THE EDUCATION watchdog Ofsted has praised a multi-cultural primary school in Swindon for the level of respect among children attending it.

Ofsted rated Drove Primary overall as a good – the second highest grade – and said it had extremely strong relationships among all community members.

The report said: “Importantly, in a school where there is such a mixed ethnic population, pupils treat each other with respect and affection. There have been no recorded racial incidents for the last eight years.”

In some year groups, 90 per cent of children do no speak English as their first language. Children speak 36 languages, including Vietnamese and Bulgarian.

Headteacher Nick Capstick said: “I am absolutely delighted with the Ofsted report – it comes just at the right time. It is an official endorsement on what has been a successful year. It also comes at a time when our Sats results have never been better.

“We have a zero tolerance on anything, which doesn’t show respect to peers, elders or cultures. We want our children to be secure in who they are and their own identity.

“It is about children not feeling threatened by other cultures or races.”

Mr Capstick has another reason to celebrate, as he went to London for the National Teaching Awards which were broadcast on BBC2 and Mr Capstick was representing the west of England.

Drove also received an outstanding community involvement award at the TES School Awards this year.

“All of this is just a perfect year,” said Mr Capstick.

Ofsted said the school is improving .During the last inspection in 2006, the school was rated satisfactory – the second lowest score.

Mr Capstick said he was particularly pleased with Ofsted’s latest verdict - that Drove created well-balanced, confident pupils who welcome challenge at his school.

He said: “As a parent but also an educator I think this is the highest praise for any school.”

Ofsted graded the school, which has nearly 450 pupils, as good in most categories but outstanding in personal development and well-being.

The overall effectiveness of the school, effectiveness of the early years foundation stage, achievement and standards, quality of provision and leadership and management were rated as good.

But inspectors want writing in Years 1 and 2 to get better and make sure boys learn enough in lessons.

Mr Capstick said: “There are things which we need to improve and we really welcome the honesty and the challenge that the inspectors have shown us.”

Earlier in the year Drove Primary school won a dyslexic award, see picture.