Improvements to teaching and learning have seen a primary school’s rating jump from “inadequate” to “good”.

Wainscott Primary in Rochester was previously pushed into becoming an academy

due to safeguarding issues.

In 2019 Ofsted rated the school in Wainscott Road “inadequate” — the lowest rating a school can receive.

It sparked a backlash from parents at the time who were concerned about changes and feared it was being judged too harshly by the education watchdog.

However, following a recent full inspection the school, which is now an academy and run as part of The Primary First Trust, has been rated “good” in all areas.

Inspectors found pupils “enjoy” attending the school and feel “happy, cared for and safe”.

Improvements to teaching and learning were also noted with current pupil achievement better than it had been previously.

The report added: “The school has developed a positive environment for learning.

“Pupils who find it difficult to manage their behaviour are supported effectively by skilled staff.”

In the school’s last inspection in March 2019, Ofsted found shortfalls in safeguarding and inadequate arrangements for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

But the latest inspection, which took place across two dates in March, found arrangements for safeguarding were now “effective”.

The report found children with SEND usually get the help that they need to learn well and teachers adapt learning carefully.

It added that most teachers identify gaps in the children’s knowledge well and use this information to inform teaching.

“This supports pupils to build their knowledge gradually over time,” the report added.

“However, not all staff check pupils’ understanding with the required precision.

“As a result, some pupils develop gaps in their knowledge.”

Inspectors also highlighted the school has high expectations for the children’s achievement.

“Pupils know that they are expected to work hard and to succeed,” it read.

“They take pride in their learning and this is reflected in the quality of work that they produce.”

Headteacher Monique Clark said she was thrilled with the report.

“We are completely committed to continuing to provide our pupils with the best possible education and ensuring our school is a tolerant, creative space where pupils can thrive,” she said.

“I was pleased that Ofsted recognised that we have created a positive learning environment and we care about the personal development of our pupils.

“It is a pleasure to teach the pupils at Wainscott Primary School, and I hope everyone in our community feels proud of this brilliant result.”

Chief executive at The Primary First Trust, Andrew Moorhouse added: “This fantastic Ofsted report is a reflection of the leadership of Monique Clarke and the dedication of every member of staff, who have been instrumental in turning this school around since it joined our Trust and deliver a first-class education for children in our local community.

“I am looking forward to continuing to work with Wainscott Primary School, to build the futures of the children we serve and create lives without limits by providing them the best start in life.”