Disadvantaged pupils and gypsy, and traveller children are thriving at a village primary school, according to Ofsted.

Darenth Community Primary School, in Green Street Green Road, Dartford, was rated “good” by the government watchdog.

Inspector Martyn Kitson said: “The large group of gypsy, Roma and traveller children achieves better than this group achieves nationally, and the gap between the results for these children and all other children in the school is narrowing.

“Disabled pupils and those with special needs make similar progress to all other pupils because of the strong support that is given to them through working in small groups.”

Darenth was rated “good” in all four areas considered by Ofsted: leadership and management, pupils’ behaviour and safety, the quality of teaching, and the achievement of pupils and early years provision.

Ofsted’s latest report marks an improvement in standards at the school. It was found to “require improvement”, after an inspection in May 2013.

Praising the level of teaching at the school, Mr Kitson said: “Teachers work hard to ensure that there are good relationships between all pupils in the school.

“Pupils are engaged in their learning and demonstrate positive attitudes towards it. Pupils are managed effectively by teachers. Lessons are not affected by even low level disruption and this enables pupils to learn well and make good progress.”

To celebrate its achievement the school threw a summer picnic for children, which included the releasing of doves and party games.

Also there to congratulate pupils and staff was the Mayor of Dartford, Cllr Ian Armitt.

Darenth head teacher, Jo Cerullo said of the report: “I am thrilled with the outcome and believe that this is the beginning of something really special for the school and the local community.”