St Mary’s CofE Primary School in Amersham is recognized as a good school, as confirmed by its recent inspection. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils feel safe and enjoy attending. They demonstrate curiosity in their lessons and engage actively with a broad and interesting curriculum that often incorporates local history and culture. For instance, pupils appreciate trips to the local museum, which enrich their understanding of the past. The behavior of the pupils is commendable, reflecting the school’s four rules and its Christian ethos. They are kind to one another, and instances of bullying are rare.
The leadership at St Mary’s is characterized by high expectations for both academic achievement and behavior, balanced with a caring and supportive approach. Leaders are proactive in ensuring that pupils who require additional support receive it promptly, contributing to a nurturing atmosphere where pupils feel well cared for. Opportunities for leadership are encouraged, with pupils taking on roles such as playground buddies and sports leaders, which helps to foster a sense of community and responsibility.
The school is ambitious for its pupils, expecting them to behave well and achieve academically. This ambition is reflected in the minimal disruptions to learning, allowing for a focused educational environment. Staff members are dedicated to supporting the wider development of pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils are actively involved in school life, participating in charity events and community service, which enhances their social skills and sense of belonging.
In terms of academic performance, pupils generally meet the requirements of the Year 1 national screening check in phonics, although a small minority in Reception and Year 1 struggle due to a mismatch between the teaching and the reading materials provided. The school is addressing this by offering additional support to help these pupils catch up. Most pupils become fluent readers by the end of Key Stage 2, and they express enthusiasm for reading, sharing their favorite stories and books.
Mathematics is another area where pupils excel, showing eagerness to apply their knowledge and solve problems. The curriculum is well-structured, building on prior learning and allowing pupils to select their own level of challenge. This approach, along with small-group teaching for those needing extra support, fosters confidence among pupils.
While the curriculum is ambitious and relevant, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to ensure that the long-term plans for knowledge acquisition are more specific, as some subjects lack depth in pupils’ understanding. Additionally, the teaching of phonics and the selection of reading materials need to be better aligned with the needs of lower-attaining pupils to enhance their reading fluency.
In the early years, the curriculum is designed to stimulate curiosity and help children understand their surroundings. Routines are clear, supporting children in knowing what is expected of them. Staff well-being is prioritized, with leaders mindful of managing workloads effectively, contributing to a supportive work environment.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, with clear procedures for reporting concerns. Staff are trained to recognize signs of abuse and are vigilant in their responsibilities. Overall, St Mary’s CofE Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong emphasis on both academic and personal development, while also identifying areas for further enhancement.
