BARRY'S biggest primary school has been praised by government inspectors for substantial improvements.

In the first report since Holton Road Junior and Infant schools amalgamated in 1997, the Estyn report has commended the school's "strong, caring ethos" and the "effective leadership" of acting head teacher Val Simpson.

But it also says the school now needs to further improve children's key skills, especially in English listening, geography and Information Technology.

On the whole, the school had begun to make progress since the last inspection, and wins praise for its teaching of the under fives.

Overall, teaching is satisfactory in 95% of lessons, and good in 49 percent.

Results at Key Stage 1 compare well with similar schools.

But the report also says that results in Key Stage 2 are among the lowest 25% of schools in Wales.

The inspectors say the school needs to spread more widely the good practice that is already taking place.

The report published the results of the inspection that took place in the Autumn term of 2001. It says: "Mrs Simpson has made substantial and significant improvements, shows a caring, conscientious and hardworking approach, and provides good, effective leadership where all teaching and non-teaching staff are valued and respond positively."

The report says the inspecting team found the school, which opened a 52-place nursery in 1999, "provides a positive and supportive environment in which its 511 pupils are valued, confident, happy and secure."

"Staff are good role models for the children and work hard to create calm and caring surroundings. Most pupils are friendly, polite and welcoming and are eager to help their younger colleagues."

Hugh O'Sullivan, chairman of governors said: "The report clearly recognises the hard work being put in by teachers, pupils and governors. Holton Road Primary is now in an excellent position to undertake the challenges ahead."