Forest Row Church of England Primary School, located in East Sussex, has recently undergone an inspection that highlights its overall effectiveness as good, with outstanding leadership and management. The school fosters a strong sense of belonging among its pupils, who are described as happy and engaged in a broad and exciting curriculum. This curriculum is further enriched by various clubs and educational visits that align with the students' learning experiences. The school prides itself on its inclusive ethos, ensuring that every pupil is treated as an individual, which contributes to a supportive learning environment.
Pupils feel safe and confident in the support provided by the adults in the school. Disruption to learning is infrequent, and the new behaviour policy effectively supports all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school takes bullying seriously, addressing any incidents swiftly and effectively. High expectations are set for all pupils, both academically and personally, and students are motivated to meet these standards. The 'Forest Row 10 things' initiative outlines aspirations for pupils, focusing on resilience and a love of reading, which prepares them well for secondary education.
The school has made significant strides in its sports program, providing every pupil with access to high-quality coaching, leading to notable achievements in local competitions. The leadership team has prioritized high-quality training for staff, resulting in teachers possessing expert knowledge in their subjects. However, there remains a small number of pupils who require more targeted support to ensure consistent achievement across all subjects.
Reading is a key focus at Forest Row, with the new leadership team implementing a phonics program that emphasizes successful reading for all pupils. High-quality coaching for staff has led to increased confidence and fluency in reading among students. The school has cultivated a love of reading from the early years, with well-curated texts enhancing pupils' understanding across subjects. Despite these efforts, there is a need for continued improvement in attendance, as some pupils are not attending regularly enough, which affects their learning.
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, including clubs and trips, which enhance the curriculum and ensure that disadvantaged pupils benefit significantly. Pupils express enthusiasm for their leadership roles within the school, contributing to a respectful and inclusive environment. The new leadership team has driven rapid and sustained improvements, positively impacting pupils' learning experiences while also supporting staff well-being.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. However, to further enhance its effectiveness, the school must continue to address attendance issues and ensure that all pupils receive the precise support they need to achieve their full potential across the curriculum. The leadership team is committed to ongoing improvements and has established strong relationships with parents, fostering a sense of community and collaboration in supporting pupils' education. Overall, Forest Row Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to high standards and continuous improvement, making it a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils.
