Pupils and staff of the Kerem Primary in Hampstead Garden Suburb are back to school on a high following the announcement of an impressive assessment by the Independent Schools Inspectorate.

Kerem was adjudged excellent in all eight categories of the report by ISI. The grade is equivalent to "outstanding" in the ratings of Ofsted, whose work ISI mirrors.

The report noted excellent pupil progress and positive attitudes to learning. "The curriculum is managed well, dynamic, planned carefully and provides pupils of all abilities with a rich learning experience," inspectors noted.

Kerem head Alyson Burns was "delighted and proud that the hard work of the staff, pupils and everyone involved with Kerem has been recognised.

"It is gratifying that the inspectors recognised that the school is highly successful in creating a family community in which self-esteem and personal and moral awareness are outstanding."

Governors chair David Wolfson added: "This is a fantastic achievement. I knew we had an excellent school, but it's good to have that confirmed officially."