St Mary's Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School in Burnham-on-Crouch has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 27 and 28, 2022. The school provides a positive environment where pupils are happy and appreciate their teachers. The ambitious curriculum encourages students to strive for their best, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils demonstrate good behavior and respect for one another, with rare instances of bullying that are promptly addressed by staff. Students feel safe and know whom to approach with any concerns.
Older pupils take pride in their roles and responsibilities, such as class ambassadors and play leaders, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere for visitors and supporting younger children during playtime. Participation in local events, including carnivals and sports, fosters teamwork and skill development, earning the school recognition from the local mayor.
The school excels in delivering an interesting curriculum that promotes strong subject knowledge among teachers. They effectively assess pupils' understanding and retention of lesson content, positively impacting their ability to articulate their learning. An effective assessment system has been established, allowing staff to track pupil progress in reading, science, and mathematics. However, there are inconsistencies in the application of these systems across other subjects, leading to gaps in knowledge and skills not being addressed as effectively.
Reading instruction is prioritized, with pupils engaging with books that align with their learning. Targeted support is provided for those with gaps in their reading skills, helping them improve fluency and comprehension. While the newly introduced phonics scheme is generally effective, some inconsistencies exist in its implementation, affecting the pace at which pupils learn to read. Leaders are aware of these issues and are providing additional training to enhance staff expertise.
In the early years, children quickly adapt to their learning routines, supported by skilled adults who help them develop foundational knowledge in English and mathematics. The curriculum includes engaging activities that allow children to apply their knowledge in practical contexts. Pupils with special educational needs are well-supported and have access to the same ambitious curriculum as their peers, achieving commendable progress.
The well-being of pupils is a priority, contributing to their good behavior and positive school culture. Leaders offer various opportunities to broaden pupils' understanding of the world, including international links that help them appreciate diverse communities. Staff express strong support for school leadership, and parents appreciate the commitment shown by teachers, particularly regarding mental health strategies.
Governors fulfill their statutory roles effectively, having undergone training to hold leaders accountable. They maintain high expectations and are proactive in monitoring the school's performance. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with staff trained to recognize and address potential concerns. Pupils are educated on safety in the community and online, fostering an open culture where they feel comfortable discussing their feelings and concerns.
While the school has many strengths, areas for improvement include addressing inconsistencies in the phonics curriculum and ensuring that assessment systems are uniformly applied across all subjects. Leaders are committed to providing the necessary training and support to enhance teaching practices and further improve pupil outcomes. Overall, St Mary's Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
