IT was just luck that, when East Wickham Infant School was due its latest Ofsted inspection, during the heaviest snowfall for 20 years.

But the Wickham Street, Welling, school sailed through its inspection and received high praise from the inspectors.

It was judged to be good in all categories except leadership and management which was described as “outstanding”.

Inspectors noted the school’s “strong and sustained” rise in standards and said pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development was also outstanding.

They said the children “thrive in a stimulating, happy and caring environment” and praised “the impressive way in which pupils' horizons are broadened to appreciate other people's beliefs, cultures and ways of life”.

The inspectors also agreed the remarkable, across-the-board improvement since the last inspection was due to “the outstanding leadership and management of the headteacher and her team”.

Headteacher Susan Manzi praised governors and staff who “make the school a happy and exciting place” and said she was very proud of the children.

Chairman of governors Brendan Hollyer said he was thrilled with the report and said it reflected the dedication and hard work of both children and staff.