St Michael’s Primary School, located in Withyham, East Sussex, underwent an inspection on 31 October and 1 November 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as requiring improvement, with specific areas such as the quality of education and leadership and management also receiving a similar rating. However, the school demonstrated good performance in behavior and attitudes, personal development, and early years provision.
Pupils at St Michael’s enjoy their time at school, forming positive relationships and engaging in imaginative play. They feel safe and supported, with a clear understanding of the school’s values, which are reinforced during assemblies. The school has a strong focus on mathematics and reading, but this emphasis has led to gaps in knowledge in other subjects. The recent staffing challenges have impacted the school’s ability to provide a well-rounded education, but there is a readiness to address these issues.
The school has made commendable efforts in developing pupils’ skills in mathematics and reading. Teachers receive effective training that enhances their classroom practices, helping pupils, especially in the early years, to settle into routines and develop reading skills. As pupils progress, they demonstrate a good ability to read and understand what they have learned. However, the inspection highlighted that many pupils have gaps in their knowledge in subjects beyond reading and mathematics. The curriculum lacks clarity in many areas, leading to inconsistencies in teaching and assessment practices.
Teachers are encouraged to foster a positive learning environment, and pupils generally exhibit respectful behavior towards adults and peers. The school promotes diversity and equality, with pupils articulating their views on important social issues. A variety of extracurricular activities and trips enrich the pupils’ experiences, and the school ensures that these opportunities are accessible to all, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Despite the positive aspects, the school must improve its curriculum progression in subjects beyond reading and mathematics. Leaders need to provide teachers with clear guidelines on the essential knowledge and skills required in all subjects to ensure that pupils achieve their full potential. The use of assessment also requires enhancement, as current practices do not effectively identify and address gaps in pupils’ knowledge.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is generally effective, but there are instances where additional adaptations are necessary to help these pupils succeed across all subjects. The school is committed to improving its practices in this area to ensure that all pupils can access the curriculum alongside their peers.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Michael’s are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported. The school has a clear ambition for the development of its pupils, and with the right focus on curriculum clarity and assessment practices, it can work towards achieving a higher standard of education for all its students. The leadership team is aware of the areas needing improvement and is prepared to take the necessary steps to enhance the overall educational experience at St Michael’s Primary School.
