Ooh la la! Some of these pupils may only be as old as four, but already they are learning a foreign language.

Pupils at Ravensden Lower School began studying French at the beginning of the academic year, and this was one of the factors which contributed to another good Ofsted report published before the end of last term.

The 42-pupil, voluntary-aided lower school, located in Vicarage Close, was rated 'good' by inspectors in each of the 32 categories assessed.

The report said pupils are flourishing and "whatever their starting points, make good progress because the teaching is good".

A strong, caring, Christian atmosphere was identified, nurtured by an "enthusiastic staff and visible headteacher".

The report said there is room for improvement in science, where no Year Two pupils achieved the higher level three result, but added that a high turnover of staff since the last inspection had been well managed, with the backing of "supportive" governors.

The pupils are said to transfer easily from the pre-school on site, and leave at the age of nine, well prepared, and with above average results, for middle school. They enjoy going to school and "look after one another". Even their 'healthy lifestyles' were praised.

Ravensden, along with Great Barford and Roxton Lower schools, introduced French lessons for all its pupils with language assistant Aurelie Esperou, from Nice, ahead of a countywide initiative.

Paul Stanyard, headteacher of three years, said: "We wanted to give them the best chance to learn a new language.

"They are picking it up quickly and really enjoying it.

"The last inspection was quite good and we have made improvements since then to the foundation stage curriculum and reception classes, and also built a new classroom."

He also highlighted a major investment in PCT, with a refurbished room, and interactive whiteboards.

Many of the school's pupils live in Bedford, rather than the village, and Mr Stanyard said: They are choosing to send their children to a small village school, and the education they are getting is similar to
a private school in many ways."