Simply the best

Amelia Grattidge, St Matthew’s, Andrew Walford Blue Coat, and Jodie Fitzpatrick Limeside Juniors.

A ONCE failing primary is among eight Oldham schools and colleges named as the best in the country.

Limeside Primary is included in the chief inspector of education’s annual list of outstanding providers after achieving a massive turnaround.

St Matthew’s CE Infant School, Chadderton, and Blue Coat CE High School, Oldham, both appear in the record of excellence for the second time.

Three other primaries receive the accolade for the first time — Freehold, Thorp and Yew Tree — along with Oldham College and Oldham Sixth Form College.

The annual report to parliament identifies 2,944 schools, colleges, adult training and childcare providers which received outstanding inspection reports in the last year.

Only 25 Greater Manchester schools have appeared on the list before. Limeside is the region’s only school included after previously being judged inadequate.

In 2000, it was placed in special measures because of poor test results, attendance, behaviour, teaching and management. But a year ago, inspectors found it provided the highest quality of care and education.

Delighted head teacher Helen Arya said: “The school has been transformed.”

St Matthew’s received top grades across the board in its inspection last December.

Head teacher Patricia Shepherd said: “It’s always nice to receive recognition as I know how much effort goes in to making St Matthew’s the success it is.”

Blue Coat head teacher Julie Hollis added: “This reflects the commitment and sheer hard work of the students and staff.”

Outstanding schools and colleges are allowed to use a distinctive logo celebrating their status.

Chief Inspector of Education Christine Gilbert, said: “Congratulations are particularly deserved for those schools previously judged to be inadequate which have been transformed and now provide outstanding education.”