Maynards Green Community Primary School, located in Heathfield, East Sussex, underwent an inspection on March 11 and 12, 2020. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas such as the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, and leadership and management also receiving a good rating. Notably, personal development and early years provision were rated as outstanding. The previous inspection in April 2019 had awarded the school an outstanding judgment, and the current rating reflects changes in the school and the updated inspection framework.
Pupils at Maynards Green enjoy their time at school, benefiting from a wide range of learning opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. Activities such as regular outdoor walks in the local countryside are highly valued by both pupils and staff. The school fosters a strong community ethos, recognizing and valuing each pupil's individuality. Pupils feel happy, safe, and exceptionally well cared for, with leaders setting high expectations for all students. The school rules are well understood by pupils, who actively participate in their development.
Most pupils achieve well academically and are encouraged to be aware of their mental health and well-being. They demonstrate confidence and resilience, even when faced with challenging tasks. The majority of pupils exhibit good behavior, responding positively to staff instructions. Instances of bullying are reported to be rare, and when they do occur, staff address them promptly.
The school has developed an ambitious curriculum that is generally well-planned to help pupils build on their prior knowledge. For instance, early years pupils displayed curiosity during a science activity involving gingerbread biscuits, leading to further exploration with their teacher. Teachers create engaging learning activities to enhance pupils' knowledge retention. However, in some subjects, particularly science, the planned activities may not effectively support the development of knowledge and skills, leading to confusion and disengagement among some pupils.
Reading is prioritized in the school, with early years children quickly learning essential letters and sounds. Teachers provide numerous opportunities for reading practice, and older pupils are encouraged to explore a diverse range of books. Support is readily available for pupils needing additional help to catch up.
The school excels in developing pupils' character and resilience through thoughtful curriculum activities, including classroom debates and community engagement projects. Pupils actively participate in initiatives to improve their environment and demonstrate a solid understanding of democracy and the rule of law. They enjoy a variety of extracurricular activities, including school trips and competitions.
Leaders effectively support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they achieve high standards. Governors work closely with school leaders, although they need to enhance their understanding of the impact of leadership on educational quality. Staff feel well-supported and valued, and parents express strong support for the school's efforts.
The safeguarding arrangements at Maynards Green are effective, with well-trained staff who know how to report concerns. Leaders prioritize the safety and well-being of pupils, ensuring that vulnerable students and their families receive appropriate support.
To improve, the school must ensure that the curriculum is consistently planned and delivered across all subjects, particularly in science, to prepare pupils adequately for their next learning stages. Additionally, governors should focus on gathering information that aligns with the school's development priorities to better support and challenge school leaders in their improvement efforts.
