Hollins Grundy Primary is a friendly school where pupils are happy, say inspectors.

A team from education watchdog Ofsted visited the 202-pupil school, in Hollins Lane, Bury, in October where they rated the school “good” in five areas and “satisfactory” in another 18.

Lead inspector Andree Keddle reported: “This school provides a satisfactory education for its pupils. Pupils make satisfactory progress overall to attain average standards in English and mathematics by the time that they leave at the end of Year 6.

“The school’s own data and pupils’ work show increased progress being made and this is beginning to reverse the decline in standards in English and mathematics which were above the national average at the time of the last inspection.

“This is a warm, welcoming and friendly school. Pupils say that they feel happy and safe and parents and carers agree.”

Ms Keddle said the school needed to raise standards, particularly in maths, by ensuring teaching is consistently good throughout the school.

Lessons should be challenging and support staff should be fully involved in supporting pupils in all parts of lessons.

Ms Keddle encouraged the governing body to hold school leaders to account by asking challenging questions and monitoring data.

Headteacher Mr Simon Waddington said: “I am aware, like all heads, of how the Ofsted regime is much stricter these days. I am pleased the inspectors have noted the areas we are good at, like the care of the pupils and the emotional support we give them.We are aware of the recommendations for improvements — they are all in our school improvement plan.”

At the last inspection in 2007, inspectors rated Hollins outstanding in one area, good in 25 areas, and satisfactory in one area.