A DUDLEY school is celebrating receiving top marks in its first Ofsted inspection since becoming an academy.

Inspectors visiting St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in April gave it an outstanding grading.

The school in Hillcrest Road, has improved since it became an academy in September 2013, as it received a good grading in its last inspection in October 2008.

A report compiled by Ofsted said pupils make "rapid progress" in reading, writing and mathematics as many youngsters start the school with skills "weaker than is typical for their age" but reach "above average standards" by the end of key stage two.

The report said that pupil's behaviour was "exemplary" and "they are extremely enthusiastic about their learning and proud of their school".

Youngsters also showed inspectors that they "respect each other's different views and beliefs" and "all feel highly valued and appreciate that diversity in the school is celebrated".

Staff were also praised for their leadership and management and the school's early years provision was also judged to be at highest level.

Headteacher Mark Hinton said: “We are delighted that Ofsted have judged our school to be outstanding and we are very proud to have been recognised in this way.

"We work really hard to make our school the best it can be for the children and families and this is a real achievement for the whole community at St Joseph’s.”