Suttons Primary School, located in Hornchurch, Essex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 11 and 12, 2024. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community where pupils feel included and valued. Students express their enjoyment of the diverse environment, describing it as a family-like atmosphere where they are well-known and supported. They appreciate the engaging learning experiences provided by the staff, who are dedicated to ensuring that all pupils understand their work, offering additional help when needed. The school promotes a culture of safety and respect, with pupils demonstrating a solid understanding of bullying, which is reported to be rare.
The high expectations set by the staff for both achievement and behavior are mirrored by the pupils, who take pride in their work and are motivated to learn. The school emphasizes fundamental British values, providing opportunities for pupils to engage in democratic processes, such as voting on school events. This approach fosters a deeper understanding of civic responsibilities among the students.
Reading is a central focus at Suttons Primary School, with a robust phonics program in place that significantly enhances pupils' reading skills. The school ensures that pupils are familiar with essential literacy components from an early age, with daily story sessions in Reception and a competitive spirit surrounding reading achievements. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, with careful planning that allows pupils to build on their knowledge progressively. However, there are areas where the curriculum is still being embedded, and some activities may not align closely with the intended learning outcomes, which can affect pupils' retention of key concepts.
Staff members are increasingly confident in delivering the new curriculum, regularly assessing pupils' understanding and adapting their teaching strategies accordingly. The school provides strong support for pupils with special educational needs and those learning English as an additional language, ensuring that all students can achieve their potential. The positive behavior of pupils is evident, with a culture of respect and courtesy prevailing throughout the school. Attendance rates are high, as pupils are eager to participate in their learning experiences.
Suttons Primary School also prioritizes the wider development of its pupils, offering various extracurricular activities and outings to enhance their educational experience. Recent trips to significant cultural sites have enriched their learning and provided real-world context to their studies. The school council allows pupils to have a voice in decision-making, further promoting their engagement and sense of responsibility.
The leadership team is attentive to staff workload and has implemented measures to support their professional development. Staff members value the opportunities for growth and collaboration within the school. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring that pupils' welfare is a top priority.
While the school has many strengths, it recognizes the need to further embed the new curriculum across all subjects to ensure consistency in teaching and learning. Continued training and support for staff will be essential in achieving this goal. Overall, Suttons Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering a love of learning and a strong sense of community.
