St Michael and All Angels Church of England Primary and Pre School is recognized as a good school, providing a friendly and welcoming environment for learning. The school emphasizes core values such as respect, resilience, and cooperation, which are integrated into daily activities and are viewed as essential life skills. Parents express satisfaction with the education their children receive, highlighting the school's community feel and the positive impact it has on their children's development.
Pupils at the school demonstrate exceptional politeness and respect towards their teachers and peers. They engage actively in their learning, showing curiosity and enthusiasm for their work. Teachers are regarded as experts, and students often discuss their lessons with excitement. The strong partnerships between adults and pupils contribute to a supportive atmosphere where students feel safe and well cared for. The school prioritizes the well-being of its pupils, ensuring that any issues, including bullying, are addressed promptly.
The school excels in teaching reading, with leaders providing regular coaching and professional development for teachers. Pupils are regularly assessed, and those who struggle receive immediate support to help them catch up. The reading materials are well-aligned with the phonics they have learned, fostering confidence in their reading abilities. The school also focuses on expanding pupils' vocabulary, recognizing its importance for success across the curriculum. Language and communication skills are developed from pre-school through to Year Six, ensuring that every staff member understands their significance.
However, there are areas for improvement. A notable number of pupils struggle with handwriting, which affects their writing fluency and confidence. The school leadership is aware of this issue and is implementing plans to enhance handwriting skills among students. Additionally, while the teaching programs align with the national curriculum, some subjects, such as science and history, require refinement in their curriculum intentions. This lack of clarity can lead to less focused learning experiences for pupils, who may not always have sufficient opportunities to practice and refine their skills.
The early years provision at the school lays a solid foundation for future learning, with staff effectively delivering the curriculum and engaging children in their education. Pupils generally conduct themselves well, showing a strong desire to excel in their lessons. The school provides opportunities for pupils to explore their interests through activities like cycle training and various clubs, although some parents feel that after-school club options are limited.
Leadership at the school is strong, with leaders and governors understanding the school's strengths and having appropriate plans for further improvement. Staff express pride in their work and feel supported by considerate leadership. The partnership with parents is robust, with many parents praising the school.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to identify risks and take timely action to support pupils. The school fosters a culture of safety, teaching pupils how to protect themselves in various situations. Overall, St Michael and All Angels Church of England Primary and Pre School continues to provide a good education, with a commitment to improving areas such as handwriting and curriculum clarity to enhance the learning experience for all pupils.
