Five Ashes Church of England Primary School is recognized as a good school, demonstrating a commitment to the success of its pupils. The school, located in East Sussex, has a small but ambitious environment where leaders strive for excellence in all areas of education. Pupils exhibit determination and enthusiasm in their learning across a diverse curriculum, benefiting from strong connections with the local community. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, with archery and cookery being particularly favored by students.
The ethos of the school is deeply rooted in Christian values, fostering a supportive and caring community. Pupils of all ages interact positively, creating a safe and nurturing atmosphere. Staff members are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of students, and pupils report a lack of bullying, attributing this to their close-knit relationships. They express confidence in the staff's ability to manage any behavioral issues, which are infrequent.
Students enjoy their time at school, with many expressing that it is a significant and positive part of their lives. Parents echo this sentiment, highlighting the enriching experiences their children receive. The school has recently undergone leadership changes, with a new team identifying areas for improvement in learning across subjects. They have implemented new strategies that have already shown positive results, particularly in mathematics, where a focus on problem-solving has enhanced teaching effectiveness.
While the school has made strides in curriculum development, there are areas that require further attention. Teachers are encouraged to consistently utilize the detailed progression documents created by leaders to ensure that lessons build on prior knowledge. In geography, for instance, there have been instances where new concepts were introduced without adequate connections to previous learning.
Phonics instruction is a strength of the school, leading to all pupils becoming fluent readers by the end of key stage one, including those who struggle with reading. The school promotes a love of reading through regular read-aloud sessions and a rich selection of books. However, leaders have noted that comprehension skills, particularly in key stage two, need further development. Steps are being taken to address this, but more work is necessary to ensure that comprehension is taught rigorously.
The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive appropriate support. The SENCo plays a vital role in identifying needs and coordinating assistance, allowing these pupils to learn alongside their peers effectively. Disadvantaged pupils also receive additional support, resulting in learning outcomes that are comparable to their classmates.
Pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning, actively participating in classroom activities. Established routines contribute to a strong focus on education, although there are instances where teachers may lack in-depth subject knowledge, impacting the security of pupils' learning. Behavior throughout the school day is commendable, with pupils understanding expectations and being motivated by rewards.
The broader development of pupils is well supported through community engagement, with various visitors enriching the curriculum. Opportunities for leadership and responsibility are provided through an active school council involved in local projects. The cohesive staff team collaborates effectively to enhance educational quality, benefiting from shared experiences across the federation of schools.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and address any concerns promptly. Pupils learn about safety in various contexts, contributing to their overall sense of security. The school is dedicated to continuous improvement, with leaders focused on refining the curriculum and teaching practices to ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential.
