Matching Green Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School in Essex has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on July 3 and 4, 2023. The school is characterized by a welcoming atmosphere where pupils thrive and demonstrate respect and kindness towards one another and visitors. The school community values diversity, particularly appreciating the contributions of pupils from various backgrounds. Relationships between staff and students are nurturing, fostering an environment where pupils feel safe and supported. The school promotes its core values of kindness, endurance, thankfulness, friendship, and forgiveness, which pupils actively strive to embody.
Pupils understand the school's rules and expectations, and those who face challenges in meeting these standards receive appropriate support. The school encourages high aspirations among its students, motivating them to achieve their best. The rewards system in place further enhances this motivation. Enrichment activities, including trips, guest speakers, and after-school clubs, contribute positively to the pupils' educational experiences. Notably, the 'friendly club' initiative allows pupils to engage with older residents of the village, fostering community ties.
The leadership team has developed a comprehensive curriculum that addresses the challenges of mixed-age classes, ensuring that learning is progressive and coherent. Teachers exhibit strong subject knowledge and deliver lessons with confidence, employing effective questioning techniques to gauge and advance pupils' understanding. Various assessment methods are utilized to identify and address gaps in knowledge, ensuring that pupils remain engaged and learning is uninterrupted.
Behaviour across the school is commendable, with pupils learning and playing harmoniously. While leaders monitor the curriculum's effectiveness, there is a need for more rigorous and systematic checks to better identify strengths and weaknesses. The early years curriculum is well-structured, preparing children for future learning by engaging them in practical activities that develop essential skills.
Reading is emphasized as a vital component of the curriculum, with high-quality literature integrated across subjects. Early reading instruction begins in Reception, with support provided for those needing additional help. However, there are instances where opportunities to reinforce phonetic knowledge could be improved. In key stage two, reading lessons sometimes lack focus on specific knowledge that pupils need to acquire, which may hinder the progress of those ready for more challenging material.
The school effectively identifies and supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. Opportunities for personal development extend beyond academics, with older pupils taking on responsibilities such as librarians and participating in the school council.
Governance is strong, with governors actively engaging with the school to understand its strengths and areas for improvement. Staff appreciate the professional development opportunities provided and the efforts made to support their well-being. While some parents express concerns, the majority hold a positive view of the school, particularly praising its nurturing environment and focus on values.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address potential risks to pupils' safety. The school promotes awareness of personal safety and online security among pupils, ensuring they know how to seek help when needed. Overall, while the school demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in curriculum monitoring and reading instruction, to ensure all pupils reach their full potential.
