St Mary Magdalene Catholic Primary School, located in Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 24 and 25, 2019. The school provides a nurturing environment where pupils feel safe and happy. The staff knows each pupil by name, fostering a sense of belonging and community. Daily greetings from leaders create a welcoming atmosphere, and pupils feel comfortable approaching adults for support. The school emphasizes high expectations for all students, encouraging them to engage in lessons and extracurricular activities actively. Pupils often take on additional challenges to deepen their understanding of the subjects they study. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with positive interactions during lessons and playtime. Year six pupil leaders play a vital role in organizing enjoyable activities for their peers during breaks, contributing to a vibrant school culture. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, they are addressed swiftly, ensuring a supportive environment for all students.
The curriculum at St Mary Magdalene Catholic Primary School is diverse and engaging, covering a wide range of subjects. Pupils participate in various activities that enhance their learning experience, such as playing in rock bands with peers from different year groups. Mathematics instruction is carefully planned, with a strong focus on early number recognition in the early years. The school provides ample resources to support mathematical learning, which helps children approach problem-solving with enthusiasm. As pupils progress to higher year groups, they tackle more complex challenges, reinforcing their understanding of mathematical concepts.
Reading is a favorite activity among pupils, with teachers introducing captivating topics based on well-selected texts that inspire a love for reading. Early phonics instruction is effective, enabling children to learn the sounds necessary for reading and communication from the outset. The school has seen an increase in the number of pupils who meet the expected phonics standards by the end of key stage one, although there is still a need for improvement to ensure even more pupils are confident readers by the start of key stage two.
Pupils also gain valuable insights into global perspectives through partnerships with schools in other countries, such as Sierra Leone. This exposure fosters respect for diversity and encourages pupils to engage in community service through various charity events. The school promotes healthy lifestyles and environmental awareness through activities like gardening clubs and sports.
The leadership team effectively utilizes funding to support disadvantaged pupils, ensuring that those with special educational needs receive appropriate assistance to thrive academically. The school has cultivated a positive culture where staff feel valued and work collaboratively for the benefit of all students. Parents express strong support for the school's staff and initiatives.
The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with a clear culture of reporting and addressing any concerns regarding pupil welfare. Governors actively fulfill their safeguarding responsibilities, conducting regular checks to ensure compliance with procedures.
While the school has made significant strides, there are areas for improvement. Leaders recognize the need to enhance phonics instruction further and ensure that all pupils acquire the necessary skills for reading by the end of key stage one. Additionally, the planning for certain subjects, such as history, requires refinement to ensure that learning is sequenced appropriately. Overall, St Mary Magdalene Catholic Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
