A school that was identified as not receiving a 'good' rating for more than a decade is celebrating a remarkable turnaround.

Milton Court Primary Academy, in Milton Regis, near Sittingbourne, was highlighted by Ofsted as one of eight schools in Kent and Medway of 130 nationally that had not been rated good for 10 years or more. That was in 2017.

But, following a visit from inspectors last month, the education watchdog has now upgraded its rating from 'requires improvement' to the second highest category.

In her report, published last week, lead inspector Frances Nation said the leadership of the school was driven by "a strong moral purpose" and leaders acted with integrity.

"Their ambitious vision is shared by the whole staff community including governors," she added.

The curriculum was praised for not being limited to academic subjects.

The inspector wrote: "Pupils enjoy wide-ranging activities, broadening their learning."

She added how the teaching of maths was strong and pupils were "very secure" in their understanding of the subject, while leaders made sure reading was a "top priority" and, as pupils moved up the school, their love of reading continued.

The atmosphere around the school was said to be "very positive" and pupils were "happy" and behaved "well".

"Leaders have successfully created an ethos of respect and tolerance," the inspector wrote.

"The pupils say the school is a 'fantastic' place to be, where there are lots of interesting things to do and learn."

"They say behaviour has improved since the head teacher took over two years ago," she added.

'It has been an honour and a privilege to have led the school to this well-deserved and tremendous outcome' - Head Anthony Cosans

Speaking about the report, head teacher Anthony Cosans, said he was delighted the hard work of the whole school community had been recognised.

"The staff here work very hard to ensure our children get exceptional opportunities to learn and this has been recognised in the report," he said.

"The children and all those associated with the school deserve the best and it is so important for the whole community to be served by a good school."

He added: "Thanks to the work carried out by Wallers Services, the building refurbishment has provided us with a bright and welcoming school that has contributed significantly to the well-being of our staff and pupils and this is reflected in the report.

"It has been an honour and a privilege to have led the school to this well-deserved and tremendous outcome."

Milton Court Primary Academy is part of the REAch2 Academy Trust and has 216 pupils on its roll.

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