Manor Primary School in Uckfield, East Sussex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 3 and 4, 2023. The school fosters an environment of kindness and collaboration, where pupils are encouraged to support one another from their early years. This ethos promotes respectful friendships and a sense of belonging among students. The school’s motto, Everyone matters, everyone helps, everyone succeeds, is actively implemented, ensuring that all pupils engage with a rich and varied curriculum. Students are taught resilience and perseverance, which contributes to their high attainment across various subjects. A pupil's reflection on their experience highlights the significant support provided by teachers, emphasizing the positive impact of the school's approach to education.
Teachers at Manor Primary School create engaging learning experiences that stimulate curiosity. For instance, after a visit to Wakehurst Place, students eagerly explored their surroundings to identify plants, demonstrating their enthusiasm for learning. Parents have noted that children leave for school excited and return eager to share their daily experiences, indicating a vibrant school culture.
The school excels in motivating pupils to understand the research and development processes in various professional fields, inspiring them to envision future careers in science, mathematics, or history. The curriculum is well-structured, outlining the knowledge and skills required for each stage of learning, which helps teachers plan effectively. Reception pupils are well-prepared for Year 1, often engaging in independent activities that promote critical thinking and scientific inquiry.
While the school performs well overall, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects have shown that pupils struggle to retain previously learned concepts. Leaders are aware of this and are refining the curriculum to ensure that key concepts are revisited regularly, enhancing long-term retention of knowledge.
Subject leaders are knowledgeable and have effectively developed teachers' practices, ensuring that new ideas are presented clearly and engagingly. Teachers break down the curriculum into manageable steps, facilitating understanding before progressing to more complex topics. Language skills are nurtured from Reception through thoughtful discussions, enabling pupils to articulate their ideas and engage in constructive debates.
Reading is a priority at Manor Primary School, with a new phonics curriculum recently introduced. Staff are well-trained, and pupils read books that align with their phonetic knowledge. Those at risk of falling behind receive prompt support, ensuring that all students achieve proficiency in reading by the end of Year 2.
Pupils are encouraged to develop leadership skills through various roles, contributing to school council meetings and promoting reading initiatives. They learn about health, well-being, and internet safety, fostering a sense of responsibility. The curriculum also exposes students to diverse cultures and backgrounds, promoting an appreciation for differences and inclusivity.
Governors play a supportive role, being mindful of staff workload and well-being while holding leaders accountable. They work collaboratively to ensure that every pupil feels valued and can achieve their potential, including those with special educational needs.
The school prioritizes safeguarding, with effective arrangements in place. Leaders build trusting relationships with families and ensure staff are trained to recognize and report risks. Pupils feel safe and are encouraged to discuss concerns with their teachers.
In summary, Manor Primary School is a good school that provides a supportive and engaging learning environment. While it has areas to refine, particularly in curriculum retention, the overall commitment to pupil development and well-being is evident. The school continues to strive for excellence, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed.
