Milldene Primary School, located in Tiptree, Essex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 17 and 18, 2022. The school provides a welcoming environment where pupils enjoy attending and feel safe and cared for. The sense of community is strong, with students expressing that there is a place for everyone, promoting diversity and inclusivity. The curriculum is broad and engaging, fostering a love for learning among pupils who demonstrate a good understanding of their subjects. They work collaboratively, listen attentively, and are motivated to excel in their studies.
The school emphasizes the development of positive relationships among pupils, who are equipped with the skills to make good friends and understand various forms of bullying. The school has effective measures in place to address any incidents of bullying, ensuring that such occurrences are rare and swiftly resolved. Additionally, pupils appreciate the wide range of extracurricular activities available, particularly in sports, and are excited about the return of school trips and visits that had been paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Leadership at Milldene Primary School has been proactive in ensuring that all pupils, starting from early years, follow a well-structured curriculum. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and adapt their teaching methods to meet the needs of their classes, which contributes to the overall achievement of pupils. They are vigilant in identifying when students are struggling and make necessary adjustments during lessons to reinforce learning. However, there are a few subjects where the curriculum lacks clarity regarding the key knowledge that pupils are expected to acquire, which can lead to students focusing more on activities rather than the learning outcomes.
Reading is a priority at Milldene, with a strong phonics program in place for early readers. Staff are quick to identify pupils who may struggle with reading and provide additional support through targeted sessions. This approach has resulted in pupils becoming confident and fluent readers. The emphasis on reading continues throughout key stage two, with students enjoying a variety of books and participating in reading competitions that foster a sense of achievement.
The school is inclusive, ensuring that children with special educational needs and disabilities follow the same curriculum as their peers. Staff are well-trained to support these pupils, enabling them to demonstrate their knowledge and skills across subjects. The core values of the school are integrated into daily activities, encouraging pupils to exhibit positive behaviors and attitudes towards learning.
The personal development program is thoughtfully designed, teaching pupils about equality and respect for diversity. They engage in discussions about different relationships, faiths, and cultures, demonstrating maturity in their understanding. Opportunities for responsibility, such as being anti-bullying ambassadors or librarians, are well-received by students.
Safeguarding measures at Milldene Primary School are effective, with leaders prioritizing the welfare of pupils. Staff are trained to recognize and act on concerns, ensuring that pupils receive the necessary support. Students are educated on how to keep themselves safe in various situations, including online environments.
To enhance the quality of education further, the school needs to ensure that the curriculum is clearly defined across all subjects, allowing pupils to build a deeper understanding over time. Leaders should focus on making the curriculum progressive and well-structured, ensuring that teachers are aware of the essential knowledge that pupils need to learn. Overall, Milldene Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth.
