Hard work and high standards paid off for one Sittingbourne primary school after it was rated as Outstanding by Oftsed inspectors.

Staff and pupils at St Peter's Catholic Primary School have been on cloud nine since they received the glowing report following an inspection back in May.

Only three years ago the school was rated as good with a satisfactory foundation stage but senior leaders and governors have turned things around by using self-evaluations of the school's performance 'extremely well' and establishing exactly what they needed to do to respond effectively to the last report.

The achievement of all different groups and ages through the school is said to be good and pupils' attainment is above average by the time pupils leave in Year 6. Parents who returned a questionnaire indicated their overall happiness with their children's experiences and nearly all believe that their children's progress and the school's leadership are good.

The report said: "Opportunities for pupils to develop their thinking and creative skills are supported strongly during lessons by good teaching and some that is outstanding.

"It is based on a highly innovative curriculum. This results in good learning and progress of all groups, which is evident in the way that pupils extend their vocabulary and express their ideas for writing."

Chair of governors Duncan Dewar-Whalley said: "This judgement represents the best Ofsted report in the school's history and is one of the most positive reports which the inspectors felt endorsed the school's mission and for everyone to 'enjoy and achieve; every day matters.'

"The pupils themselves appreciated knowing how well they are doing and the regular advice given by teachers to help them to understand what they need to do to improve.

"The leadership and management of the school will ensure that the school continues to build upon this undoubted success in the future."

To view the full report visit the website www.ofsted.gov.uk and go to inspection reports.