A primary school has kept its “good” Ofsted rating following its first inspection in six years.

Meopham Community Academy, in Meopham, near Gravesend, has been praised by the watchdog for its “high expectations” for its pupils and its leaders’ passion for providing a good education.

The report states students “relish being part of a caring school community”, are “polite and respectful” and are “enthusiastic to learn”.

It added the youngsters are “well supported” academically and with pastoral care and trust adults to listen to their worries.

Inspectors also praised the school, part of The Golden Thread Alliance trust, for its passion for reading with its classes developing “a genuine love” for the subject and becoming “fluent and accurate readers.”

The report, published on Friday (June 21), highlighted the “interesting and well-ordered curriculum” and the “high-quality training for staff”.

It added: “Leaders at all levels are reflective and passionate about providing a good education.”

However, inspectors found in some foundation subjects, the design of activities needed refining to ensure pupils consistently learn and remember enough of the content over time.

They also said some pupils did not attend the school, in Longfield Road, well enough and advised the school to focus on improving this.

Head teacher Thomas Waterman said: “I have only just joined the school so today’s positive Ofsted report belongs to the excellent staff team, the supportive parents and of course the fantastic pupils.

“They should be very proud of what they have achieved.

“However, we know there is more we can do and that there are areas to improve.

“With the ongoing support of our academy trust, we will build upon these positive foundations and continue to work hard every day so that Meopham Community Academy provides the pupils with the very best education possible.”

Chief executive of Golden Thread Alliance, Garry Ratcliffe, added: “I would like to congratulate the whole school community on the outcome of this report.

“The inspectors’ comments are a credit to the dedication of everyone at Meopham Community Academy and their work to create a supportive and inspiring environment where the children find joy in their learning.

“I look forward to seeing the school go from strength to strength.”

The primary school was rated “good” in 2014 following a full inspection and in 2018 following a short inspection.

It has been part of the Golden Thread Alliance trust since January last year.