Downham Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School in Ramsden Heath, Billericay, Essex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 28 and 29, 2021. The school fosters a nurturing environment where pupils feel safe and valued, describing the adults as amazing and the atmosphere as family-like. Relationships among pupils are strong, with older and younger students interacting positively. The school promotes kindness and respect, contributing to a supportive community where pupils are confident that they will not be lonely during playtime.
The school has high expectations for behavior, and pupils respond well, creating a calm and focused learning environment. They are engaged in lessons, allowing others to learn without disruption. The school’s vision, encapsulated in the acronym WINGS, emphasizes consideration for others and a commitment to personal bests. Pupils celebrate each other's successes and are encouraged to include everyone in activities.
Recent changes to the curriculum have been thoughtfully implemented, aiming to enhance the educational experience. Leaders are dedicated to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disadvantaged backgrounds, have access to a broad and relevant curriculum. Staff training is prioritized to ensure effective delivery of the curriculum, with a focus on consistent teaching methods, particularly in reading and language acquisition.
While many improvements have been made, some recent changes have yet to be fully integrated into classroom practice. Leaders recognize the need to monitor the implementation and impact of these changes to ensure they meet their ambitious goals. The school’s leadership is supportive of staff, understanding that a well-supported team directly benefits pupils. Teachers are given time to assess pupil progress and plan future lessons without being burdened by excessive administrative tasks.
The school adopts a proactive approach to ensure that no pupil falls behind, particularly in reading. Immediate support is provided for those facing challenges, allowing them to progress confidently. The reading curriculum is intensive and high-quality, enabling pupils to develop fluency and confidence in their reading skills.
Behavior at the school is exemplary, with pupils conducting themselves impeccably both in classrooms and around the school. They show respect towards staff and each other, contributing to a positive learning atmosphere. Pupils enjoy their learning experiences, which are designed to be engaging and fun, fostering a collective responsibility for success.
Beyond the academic curriculum, the school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that enrich the pupils' educational experience. The curriculum encourages debate and discussion, promoting respectful communication among pupils with differing opinions. Governance at the school is strong, with governors actively supporting the school’s vision and ensuring effective use of resources.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to identify and respond to potential risks. Leaders work closely with external agencies to provide necessary support for pupils. The designated safeguarding leaders are vigilant and responsive to any concerns raised.
To further improve, leaders need to ensure that all aspects of the curriculum are fully embedded and their effectiveness evaluated. This ongoing commitment to improvement will help maintain the high standards already established at Downham Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School.
