St Thomas’ Church of England Aided Primary School in Winchelsea, East Sussex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 3, 2023. The school is well-regarded by its pupils, who express positive feelings about their experiences and the opportunities available to them. The school effectively utilizes local resources, offering educational visits to the nearby coast and historical sites, which enrich the curriculum. A strong emphasis on creativity is evident, with pupils participating in activities such as songwriting workshops and performances at Glyndebourne.
The school sets high expectations for its students, particularly in the early years, where staff encourage exploration of sounds and communication skills. This foundational approach helps children transition smoothly into their educational journey. The school is inclusive, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are fully integrated into the learning environment through tailored adaptations.
A sense of community is fostered among pupils, who take on various roles such as buddies and young librarians, promoting a supportive atmosphere. The playground spaces, including a garden and climbing wall, are enjoyed collectively, and pupils demonstrate behavior aligned with the school’s values of friendship and thankfulness. Their enthusiasm for learning is palpable, as they look forward to new experiences each day.
The school has developed a comprehensive curriculum that ensures pupils learn in a structured manner. Reading and language development are prioritized, with a focus on expanding vocabulary across subjects. Early years pupils are introduced to new words and concepts in a stimulating environment, and reading materials are carefully selected to align with their learning. This approach helps all pupils, including those who struggle with reading, to build confidence and fluency.
Teachers employ strategies that aid long-term retention of knowledge, encouraging pupils to revisit and recall previously studied topics. In music, for instance, pupils refine their work through structured performances. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in mathematics, where some pupils struggle with number concepts due to the choice of activities and materials used by teachers.
While teachers generally assess pupils’ understanding effectively, there are instances where misconceptions are not addressed promptly, leading to gaps in knowledge. The school conducts termly assessments to identify areas needing reinforcement, which also aids in supporting pupils with special educational needs.
Overall, pupils achieve well, with strong teaching enabling them to develop knowledge and skills effectively. Older pupils are well-prepared for the transition to secondary school, gaining both confidence and academic readiness. The school establishes clear routines from the outset, promoting focused behavior throughout. Pupils appreciate the kind and supportive atmosphere and actively engage in leadership roles, including fundraising for local charities.
The school also provides valuable support for parents, sharing information on online safety and reading assistance. Leaders are attentive to staff feedback, offering effective training to enhance curriculum delivery while being mindful of workload. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school must ensure that tasks set by teachers consistently enable all pupils to access the curriculum fully. Additionally, addressing misconceptions with greater precision will help close gaps in understanding. The school’s commitment to continuous improvement is evident, and it remains a positive educational environment for its pupils.
