STAFF and pupils at a rapidly improving school are over the moon after Ofsted inspectors gave them a glowing report.

Richmond Avenue Primary School, in Shoebury, has become the most improved primary school in Southend, after education watchdog inspectors judged it to be “outstanding” in three areas out of five and “good” in the remaining two.

At its previous inspection, the school was judged to need improvement, but this time inspectors praised the “inspirational leadership and the considerable determination of the headteacher to provide all pupils with the very best educational experiences are central to the school’s rapid improvement”.

The report added: “Staff at all levels share the ethos created by the headteacher’s ambition and her high expectations for their teaching and for the pupils’ achievement and their outstanding behaviour.

“The strong leadership of teaching has been key to the school’s rapid improvement.”

The inspection at the 420-pupil school was carried out after stricter rules were brought in under a new inspection framework.

It was judged outstanding in leadership and management, the behaviour and safety of pupils and early years provision. It was good in quality of teaching and achievement of pupils.

Headteacher Dawn Dack said: “These are the highest Ofsted grades received by any primary school in Southend since this framework was written. We were graded overall a good school.

“The children, staff , parents and Governors need to be very proud our hard work has been rewarded. The inspectors were very impressed with the children’s interest in learning and impeccable behaviour.

“Our next goal is to be recognised as outstanding in all five areas.”

The report said changes to the school building had added to the improvement.

It said: “Leaders and governors have transformed the environment of the school so classrooms are light attractive spaces, and the limited play area is a stimulating place to be.

“The small field has been resurfaced so that it can be used all year round. As a result, while pupils say their play space is too small, they also say that playtimes are very enjoyable.”