THE largest primary school in Derbyshire is performing much better than two years ago, Government inspectors have found.
In 2012, Hilton Primary School was judged to "require improvement".
The school, which has 830 pupils, was revisited at the start of this month and has now been graded as "good".
An Ofsted report states the school is "much improved" and that some of the teaching is now "outstanding".
It also says pupils feel safe and happy at the school and are "achieving well".
Head teacher Kevan Lomas, who took charge of the school in February, said it was thrilling news for staff and pupils.
He said: "I'm delighted for the staff, children, parents and governors, who have worked so hard to achieve this judgment.
"We are very proud of all that we have achieved since the school's last inspection and the positive impact that this is having on children's learning and progress.
"This report, however, is not the end of the journey for us but a key milestone in our journey to excellence.
"Not only has it clarified all the things we are doing right but it has also helped us to clarify our priorities for the coming year and beyond.
"Our ultimate goal is to become – and remain – an 'outstanding' school, where every one of our 830 pupils is happy and successful, reaching their potential wherever their abilities may lie."
The report outlined what the school must do to be graded "outstanding" at its next inspection.
It said teachers' marking of work had not always been precise enough to help pupils improve, while some children's spelling and presentation of work needed to be worked on.
The report also found "a small minority of parents" felt they did not receive enough information about their child's progress.
Mr Lomas said he would address these points and that he was confident the school would be rated "outstanding" at its next inspection.
He said: "I have been impressed with the determination shown by my colleagues. Equally, the children have been outstanding ambassadors for the school and have worked hard to raise their own standards.
"With the continued support of teachers, children, parents and governors, I am confident that, in time, we can become an outstanding school and a real beacon of high achievement in the county."
