YOUNG pupils are fine-tuning their musical skills – in a school’s first mini orchestra.

The children of Scholes Junior and Infant School have formed their own orchestra.

Talented pupils at the Wadman Road school have taken up a variety of instruments to create the ensemble.

Headteacher Yvonne Donkersley said: “The children are really enjoying it, they are thrilled to be part of an orchestra.

“They play in special assemblies and are getting a lot out of it.

“The orchestra is a recognition of the hard work of Pat France from Kirklees Music School who helped to establish it, as well as the parent helpers who have put a lot into it.”

When the children were given brass instruments to play on Friday, the school band immediately grew, with woodwind, string, brass and percussion players.

It also has keyboard players involved.

The Scholes school has also just passed its Ofsted with flying colours.

It was identified for providing an “outstanding education for its pupils”.

The inspector praised the school, saying it was “led and managed exceptionally” by the headteacher and deputy headteacher.

The report also highlighted the rapid improvements made since the last inspection, with standards rising sharply.

Mrs Donkersley said she was pleased that the school had been praised for its strength in recognising their main aim of learning through enjoyment.

She added: “I am very, very proud of the report.

“It reflects the hard work that has been going on at the school since our last inspection which was just under four years ago.

“I just want us to continue to work to the same high standards.”

The childrens’ personal, spiritual, moral, social and cultural development was praised.

The report also said that the children’s individual strengths were recognised and that they were all encouraged to play an important part in the school community.