TEACHERS and pupils at two East Sussex schools are celebrating after receiving a glowing report from Ofsted inspectors.

Northiam Church of England Primary School, near Rye, and Meridian Community Primary School, in Peacehaven, were both judged by the education watchdog as requiring special measures in 2013.

Following their latest Ofsted inspections, both have now been taken out of special measures and are recognised as ‘good’ schools overall, with Northiam scooping an ‘outstanding’ rating for behaviour and safety.

Both schools were judged as good for quality of teaching, achievement of pupils and early years provision, while Meridian also received a good rating for behaviour and safety.

Ofsted highlighted the impact of leadership and management arrangements as a key reason for both schools’ rapid improvement and praised the work of staff to significantly improve the quality of teaching and pupils’ achievement.

The inspectors praised East Sussex County Council’s good quality support for leaders and focus on improving teaching and learning which they said had made a positive impact on driving rapid improvement.

Meanwhile, Ofsted also recognised the work and performance of the interim executive boards set up by the council for both schools to secure school improvement and promote high standards of educational achievement.

Cllr Nick Bennett, county council lead member for learning and school effectiveness (pictured) said: “It is a great achievement that these schools have been taken out of special measures so quickly.

“This marks a wonderful start to 2015 and we’re delighted that all the hard work being put into raising standards has been recognised.

“The inspection reports clearly acknowledge that the schools have gone through an exceptionally challenging time.

“The fact that inspectors recognised the schools as good is a testament to the resilience, determination and commitment of the leadership, staff and wider dedicated team of professionals working with the schools.”