St George’s Church of England Primary School in Great Bromley has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 4, 2023. The school is characterized by a warm and welcoming atmosphere where pupils take pride in their school and actively participate in leadership roles, such as being members of the school council or serving as prefects. The older students support younger ones, fostering a sense of community and safety. The school promotes inclusivity, ensuring that all children, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are fully engaged in school life.
Pupil behavior is generally positive, although there are instances of low-level disruption that are not consistently addressed by teachers. The school has a strong anti-bullying culture, with students feeling confident that any issues will be dealt with promptly. The range of extracurricular activities, including lunchtime clubs and after-school programs, is well-received by students, contributing to their overall enjoyment of school life.
The curriculum at St George’s is broad and ambitious, with leaders focusing on continuous improvement across all subjects. Recent enhancements in mathematics aim to build on students' existing knowledge. Reading is prioritized, with a structured phonics program in place from Reception onwards. Teachers are well-trained in phonics instruction, and pupils who struggle with reading receive targeted support. The school regularly assesses reading progress to ensure that all students are making strides in their literacy skills.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and effectively deliver the curriculum. However, in some foundation subjects, the focus on specific knowledge that pupils should acquire is not as precise, leading to potential gaps in understanding. Assessment practices in these subjects also need refinement to better identify knowledge gaps among students.
The school’s values, which include courage, respect, friendship, compassion, perseverance, and responsibility, are evident in the behavior and attitudes of the pupils. Personal development is supported through a comprehensive personal, social, and health education program integrated into the thematic curriculum. Enrichment activities, such as themed days and guest speakers, further enhance students' learning experiences.
Pupils exhibit positive behavior during school hours and engage well in various activities organized during breaks. The school has established clear behavior principles, but there are inconsistencies in their implementation across different year groups. Some teachers may not maintain high expectations for pupil behavior, which can lead to disruptions in learning.
The leadership team collaborates effectively with the local governing body, prioritizing staff well-being and working to minimize their workload. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns. The school maintains clear safeguarding records and acts swiftly on any issues that arise.
To improve, the school should ensure that the teaching of foundation subjects aligns more closely with the intended knowledge outcomes and that assessments accurately reflect what has been taught. Additionally, leaders should support teachers in consistently applying behavior expectations to minimize disruptions and enhance the learning environment for all pupils. Overall, St George’s Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its students.
