The new headteacher of a Wednesfield school has paid tribute to his predecessor after it received a Good inspection rating.

Sara Morris retired this summer after leading Oak Meadow Primary School for more than 2 decades - and her time as leader culminated in a positive inspection by Ofsted.

In their report published this week, inspectors praised the "strong, well informed leadership" at Oak Meadow, which had successfully upheld good standards at the school.

They found that Mrs Morris and her team had "created an incredibly positive culture in the school, where pupils' safety and welfare are given a high priority and the seeds of self belief and trust are nurtured."

Inspectors reported that pupils grow into "confident, friendly and co-operative youngsters who reach good academic standards" and said it was clear that pupils who pass through Oak Meadow Primary were "well prepared for the next steps in their lives" when they leave.

They had particularly high praise for the behaviour of pupils, describing them as "remarkably friendly and welcoming" and concluded that the school's motto of 'kind hands, kind feet, kind words" was clearly understood at Oak Meadow.

Simon Arnold, who succeeded Mrs Morris as headteacher this month after previously serving as deputy head, said: "There is a lot to celebrate in this report.

"It is a fitting tribute to the hard work and effort by Sara Morris during her 20 years leading Oak Meadow. In particular it captures her outstanding leadership style which recognised everyone's individual qualities, whether they were pupils or teachers.

"The inspection took place just before she retired, and is a true commendation for her years' service.

"We are determined to maintain the high standards which Mrs Morris achieved, and to improve still further over the coming months and years."

Councillor Claire Darke, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Education, added: "This is a very positive inspection which showcases the excellent support which Oak Meadow Primary School gives to its pupils. I would like to congratulate the leadership team old and new on their achievements.

  • released: Tuesday 13 September, 2016