Aldrington CofE Primary School, located in Hove, East Sussex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 16 and 17, 2021. The school provides a positive environment where pupils feel happy and safe. They enjoy their lessons and have access to well-equipped playgrounds, which contribute to their overall enjoyment of school life. The range of extracurricular activities, including clubs and events like cross country, further enhances their experience. Pupils express confidence in approaching staff with any concerns, knowing they will receive support and resolution.
Behavior among pupils is commendable, with a strong motivation stemming from the school's reward systems. The emphasis on being ready, respectful, and safe fosters a culture of pride and recognition among students. The school has established a robust support network for those needing additional help with behavior management, ensuring that instances of bullying are rare and addressed promptly.
The high expectations set by school leaders are met with enthusiasm from pupils, who embrace challenges in their work. Opportunities for involvement in the school's broader activities, such as the eco council and recycling projects, are plentiful, creating a vibrant and active school community. The curriculum is well-designed, allowing pupils to build knowledge across various subjects effectively.
As the school has expanded to accommodate two classes per year group, the leadership structure has evolved accordingly. Leaders have thoughtfully developed the curriculum, which is designed to help pupils acquire knowledge across a wide range of subjects. However, some subject leaders are new to their roles due to staff changes, and they are currently focused on refining subject plans and the sequence of learning.
Pupils receive a strong foundation in reading, with a clear and consistent approach to phonics instruction. In Reception, children quickly learn letters and their corresponding sounds, which helps them blend sounds to form words. This systematic approach continues throughout their early years, fostering confidence and capability in reading. Additional support is provided to those who struggle, ensuring they can catch up effectively.
As pupils progress through the school, reading is integrated into English lessons and supplemented by 'book talk' sessions. While English teaching is generally effective and appropriately challenging, some 'book talk' sessions lack organization, which can hinder the development of reading skills. Mathematics is another area where pupils thrive, with regular assessments ensuring that teaching aligns with their abilities. The excitement for mathematics is evident, as pupils enjoy solving problems and puzzles.
The school prides itself on being inclusive, with careful consideration given to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Support is tailored to ensure these pupils can access the curriculum and achieve success. Knowledge is built across the wider curriculum, with examples such as design and technology, where pupils apply prior knowledge to new projects.
Pupils demonstrate good behavior in lessons, actively engaging with teachers and peers. Collaborative projects, such as the patchwork squares created during lockdown, foster a sense of community. The school also emphasizes the development of pupils' spirituality, as seen in the thoughtful prayers created by students.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with well-trained staff and governors who understand how to identify and support at-risk pupils. Procedures for reporting concerns are clear, and records are regularly reviewed to identify any emerging needs. Pupils are educated on how to stay safe, including managing online risks, and they feel confident in seeking help from staff.
To improve, the school should focus on enhancing the organization and ambition of 'book talk' sessions to ensure all pupils make optimal progress. Additionally, subject leaders need opportunities to monitor the impact of their plans as they are implemented. Overall, Aldrington CofE Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth.
