A primary school which narrowed the gap between boys and girls has seen its rating improve from 'satisfactory' to 'good'.

Ofsted inspectors visited Rackheath Primary School in Norwich in the first week of June, and said the behaviour and safety of pupils was 'outstanding'.

The inspectors wrote: 'Pupils develop very good relationships with their teachers and teaching assistants. These helpful relationships create an environment where pupils achieve well.'

The report said there had been gaps in attainment between boys and girls, and the school had worked effectively to improve the performance of boys – although small gaps still remained.

James Shearly, who became interim headteacher in September 2012, said: 'It's about strategies that engage boys, without losing the interest of the girls. It's about actually using what you know about the children and their interests, and finding things that are engaging and relevant for them.'

The report said: 'The interim headteacher has a clear vision for the school's future.

'He has had a significant impact in bringing about improvement in a relatively short time. His vision is shared by staff and governors.'

Mr Shearly said he talked to staff about where every child needed to be by the end of the year, but with a particular focus on pupils not achieving the national standard.

The report said the school received good support from the local authority, including brokering the interim headteacher, helping appoint the next head, and reviewing pupil achievement data.

Mr Shearly will be succeeded by Chris Ashman, currently at Homefield Primary School in Bradwell, near Great Yarmouth, in September.