Leaders at a North Staffordshire school are taking "decisive action" to close gaps in older pupils' learning, Ofsted inspectors have said.

"Weaknesses" in pupils' achievement at Kidsgrove Primary School are being addressed – and there have already been improvements for early years children and those in Key Stage One (ages five to seven), the inspection report said.

But by the end of Key Stage Two (aged 11), "some pupils do not achieve as well as they should" – and leaders were told to ensure there is a more consistent approach to correcting basic errors in pupils' grammar, punctuation, spelling and handwriting, to ensure that this knowledge is more securely applied in subjects across the curriculum.

The report, published earlier this month, added: "Leaders should ensure that staff use assessment information astutely to design activities that deepen pupils' knowledge and understanding, so that more pupils achieve what they are capable of."

While achievement at the school was found to need attention, curriculum and teaching, inclusion, leadership and governance and personal development all met the expected standard.

Attendance and behaviour and early years were both found to be of a strong standard, with children making a "positive start" and staff creating a "calm and purposeful environment where pupils behave well".

The report added: "Since the previous inspection, new leadership has taken decisive action to strengthen the school's work. Leaders and those responsible for governance share a clear and ambitious vision for the school; they have a secure understanding of its context, strengths and the areas that require further refinement.

"Leaders have begun to address weaknesses in pupils' achievement across the school; as a result, more pupils are secure in their handwriting, spelling, reading and mathematics knowledge and skills.

"Improvements to the mathematics curriculum are helping pupils to recall number facts more securely, including in preparation for the Year 4 multiplication check.

"However, while there are signs of improvement in spelling, punctuation and grammar, inconsistencies remain. Consequently, some older pupils have gaps in their foundational knowledge and skills.

"Pupils have positive attitudes to learning – they engage well in lessons and are keen to share their ideas. The curriculum is designed to build pupils' knowledge over time.

"There is a strong sense of community across the school with stakeholders and pupils describing the school as a 'big family'. Pupils say everyone is supported and encouraged to succeed."

"Leaders ensure pupils take part in a wide range of enrichment opportunities that broaden their experiences. Extra-curricular clubs, educational visits and residential trips help pupils to develop new interests and build confidence.

"Through these experiences, pupils develop resilience, independence and effective social skills. They are well prepared for the next stage of their education."

Kidsgrove Primary School is part of Shaw Education Trust.

Lucy Newbon, Interim Head of School, said: "We are incredibly proud of our children, our school and our wonderful community that makes Kidsgrove Primary School such a special place to learn and work.

"We are overjoyed with the most recent Ofsted report.

"At the heart of our school is a culture where everyone is valued, respected and supported. As Head of School, I feel incredibly privileged to work alongside such dedicated staff, wonderful pupils and supportive families.

"Together, we will continue to ensure that every child has the opportunity to flourish."