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

Newington School near Sittingbourne has been praised by the watchdog as staff were “unanimously proud” in providing a high standard of education.

The report said: “Pupils are happy to come to this welcoming school where they feel safe and valued.

“The school is a calm and harmonious place where pupils are ready to learn. The school is highly ambitious for pupils, determined they will recognise their strengths and meet their full potential.”

In 2019, Newington was rated “good” in all areas.

An inspector has since visited on November 19 and 20. Their findings were published today (December 18).

The officer added: “The school is determined that pupils will achieve highly, both academically and personally.

“The school’s curriculum is broad and ambitious. It builds logically so that, right from the nursery, children develop, learn securely and attain well.

“The way the school builds pupils’ characters is a strength.

“Leaders focus staff development sharply on areas that will enable pupils to achieve highly. Staff are rightly unanimously proud to work as part of this school.”

Ofsted highlighted that there are some gaps in students’ knowledge, which are not always identified and addressed.

It says that strengthening the assessment in some of the foundation subjects will allow them to develop a wider understanding of the curriculum.

The Church of England school was founded in 1850 and is still at its original site.

Staff and pupils are busy preparing to mark its 175 anniversary next year.

Executive head teacher Tara Deevoy said: “The words in the report speak for themselves and reflect the hard work of the staff, pupils, families and our wider community in making Newington a school to be proud of.

“Our strong vision means we have always been led by the needs of our children and have created the curriculum they deserve, going above and beyond what is required.”

“We are delighted that Ofsted have recognised the amazing work our staff do in helping them realise their God-given potential.”

Head of school Simon Krafft added: “We are incredibly proud of this report. It really captures what it means to be associated with Newington CEP School.

“It is a privilege to work with our children and families and we are delighted that Ofsted have recognised the amazing work our staff do in helping them realise their God-given potential.

“We have got a few plans for 2025. We are working closely with the Newington History Group to ensure pupils – new and old – can celebrate a historic milestone and learn more about our great school.

“We are thrilled that we can begin celebrating our 175th year with positive Ofsted and SIAM [Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools] reports to add to the history books.”