An Oxford middle school, which will close next year as part of the reorganisation of the city's education system, has been praised by Government inspectors.

Anne Freeney with pupils

Frideswide Middle School, Marston Ferry Road, was described as a "a very good school" by officers from the education watchdog Ofsted, who paid tribute to staff and pupils' "vitality and determination to succeed".

Staff at the 652-pupil school welcomed the report which highlighted the quality of teaching, pupils' "civilized" behaviour and academic achievements.

The school caters for children aged nine to 13, and about two-thirds of the pupils are from ethnic minority groups

Ofsted inspector Michael Merchant said: "A very strong work ethic, a striving to do well, and a determination to make the best use of the time available, permeate the whole school.

"Pupils are well behaved, listen carefully, work hard on their tasks and take care.

"The inclusive nature of the school is a valuable asset.

"The rich ethnic mix ensures that pupils learn about different cultures and come to respect different points of view." He added: "There are high aspirations, tremendous vitality and great determination to succeed on the part of staff and pupils alike.

"The management of the school underpins these features by immaculate, detailed organisation and, above all, by their quality of care for, and sensitivity to, the needs of each individual pupil."

However, he called for improvements in the quality of marking.

Headteacher Anne Freeney said the report vindicated the principle of middle schools -- all of which are set to disappear as part of Oxford's change from a three-tier system to a two-tier one with primary and secondary schools

She said: "The report recognises the hard work, dedication, skill and enthusiasm of all staff at Frideswide over the past few years and demonstrates clearly the many strengths and advantages of middle schools."

The chairman of the school governors, David Long, said: "Mrs Freeney and the school staff have made unstinting efforts on behalf of students in very difficult times."