Peasmarsh Church of England Primary School is a small and welcoming village school located in East Sussex. The school has been rated as good in all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The inspection took place on 5 and 6 March 2024, and the school has maintained its good status since the previous inspection in June 2018.
Pupils at Peasmarsh enjoy a strong sense of community and develop meaningful friendships. The curriculum is designed around the interests of the children, providing a solid foundation for their learning as they progress through the school. The pupils engage with a broad curriculum that fosters a love of reading, and they take pride in their achievements, often referring to themselves as Peasmarsh Proud. The school places a strong emphasis on well-being and mental health, with pupils expressing that they feel safe and happy in their environment.
The school has implemented a comprehensive online safety programme, ensuring that pupils are well-informed about safety in the digital age. Behaviour is generally good, allowing for effective learning without distractions. While there are instances of bullying, the school addresses these issues promptly and effectively.
The curriculum is well-structured and sequenced, setting high expectations for both pupils and staff. Teachers receive ongoing training and support, which enhances their ability to deliver high-quality lessons. Reading is a particular strength, with a clear approach to teaching early reading and support for those who may fall behind. Pupils express enthusiasm for reading and can articulate their preferences for different genres and authors.
The school is committed to meeting the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. There is a robust process for identifying these needs, and the school aims for all pupils to achieve well. While assessment processes are effective in early years, there is room for improvement in using these assessments to inform teaching across all subjects, which could lead to even greater pupil achievement.
Positive behaviour is evident throughout the school, with established routines that help pupils understand expectations. The school has made significant strides in improving attendance, with most pupils attending regularly. The personal, social, and health education curriculum is strong, promoting discussions on relationships and respect for diversity. Pupils actively participate in community events, enhancing their connection to village life.
Despite the school's effective communication with parents, some parents feel that there is room for improvement in clarity regarding key processes, particularly concerning behaviour management and support for pupils with special educational needs. The school is encouraged to strengthen its engagement with all parents and address any concerns effectively.
The school fosters a culture of high expectations and manages staff workload well, contributing to high morale among staff. Continuous improvement is a priority, with plans to broaden the range of reading materials available to pupils. Governors are actively involved, supporting and challenging the school to maintain its high standards.
The safeguarding arrangements at Peasmarsh are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Overall, the school demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for its pupils.
