St Alfege with St Peter's Church of England Primary School, located on Creek Road in Greenwich, London, is a voluntary-aided primary school that has consistently demonstrated a commitment to providing a high-quality education. The school was inspected on November 30 and December 1, 2021, and the outcome confirmed that it continues to be a good school.
The school prides itself on being a safe and nurturing environment for its pupils. According to the inspection report, students feel secure and happy, with teachers actively looking out for their well-being. Bullying is reported to be rare, and any issues that arise are addressed promptly by the staff. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with a culture of politeness and respect evident throughout the school. In the early years, children settle in well and engage positively with their peers.
The leadership team at St Alfege has developed an ambitious curriculum designed to cater to the needs of all pupils. The curriculum is enriched with a variety of experiences, including visits to concert halls, museums, and restaurants, which help to broaden the pupils' horizons. Reading has been prioritized, especially in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The school has adopted a new phonics program, and staff have received training to implement this effectively. Teachers are diligent in assessing pupils' reading abilities and ensuring they master the sounds before progressing. However, some challenges remain, particularly in how writing support is integrated into phonics learning, which can occasionally hinder pupils' focus. Older pupils are encouraged to participate in reading challenges, with the goal of becoming reading millionaires by reading a million words. This initiative has fostered a love for reading, with students expressing enthusiasm for class story times and discussions about their favorite novels.
The inspection highlighted the effective collaboration among leaders and staff in revising the curriculum across various subjects. In mathematics, teachers provide additional support to pupils who need it, ensuring that all students can keep pace with their peers. In art, pupils are encouraged to reflect on their previous learning, which helps them build on their skills and knowledge over time. In the early years, while the environment is well-organized and caring, there is room for improvement in supporting children's language development. Ensuring that staff consistently focus on enhancing vocabulary acquisition will better prepare children for future reading.
The school is committed to inclusivity, providing effective support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Teachers allocate extra time to help these pupils develop the vocabulary necessary for understanding lessons, ensuring they can access the full curriculum and achieve well.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Alfege are robust and effective. School leaders are well-acquainted with the community and are quick to offer support to families in need. Staff are trained to recognize and report any concerns regarding pupils' welfare, and regular briefings ensure that everyone is updated on safeguarding procedures.
The school enjoys strong support from parents and carers, who appreciate the values instilled in their children. During the remote education period necessitated by COVID-19, the school provided exceptional support to families, collaborating with local churches and organizations to distribute essential items.
While the school has made significant strides, there are areas that require attention. The implementation of the new phonics program needs to be fully embedded, ensuring that all teaching approaches support pupils' phonics development without causing distractions. Additionally, staff in the early years must enhance their focus on language development to better prepare children for reading.
In conclusion, St Alfege with St Peter's Church of England Primary School stands out as a good school that prioritizes the well-being and education of its pupils. With a strong curriculum, effective safeguarding measures, and a supportive community, the school is well-positioned to continue fostering a positive learning environment. By addressing the identified areas for improvement, the school can further enhance its educational offerings and ensure that all pupils thrive.
