STAR pupils impressed inspectors with their 'exemplary' behaviour to see their school's Ofsted rating rise from satisfactory to good.

Epping Primary School, in Coronation Hill, has been awarded the second highest grading by the watchdog following an inspection last month.

Leadership and management, pupil achievement and teaching quality were all found to be good - while children's behaviour and safety landed the top grade of outstanding.

Lead inspector Susan Thomas-Pounce said: "The behaviour and attitudes of pupils to learning are exemplary.

"Their behaviour in lessons and around the school is calm, considerate and courteous.

"Excellent relationships exist between staff and pupils who are very polite, helpful and friendly to all staff and visitors to school."

Headteacher Tracy O'Donnell staged a special assembly to celebrate the report today, presenting every pupil with a certificate thanking them for their hard work.

She said: "The pupils were absolutely brilliant.

"They were a definite credit to us and all the staff have worked really, really hard.

"I feel it was a really fair reflection and one that we are extremely proud of."

Mrs O'Donnell, who - as head of the former infants school - oversaw its transition from good to outstanding, said she was hopeful the school would land the top grade at its next inspection.