Moreton Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School in Ongar, Essex, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on February 2 and 3, 2023. The school provides a supportive and nurturing environment where pupils feel happy and safe. Students express a strong sense of belonging, describing the school as a community where everyone is heard. They appreciate the high expectations set by their teachers regarding behavior and learning, which contributes to a positive atmosphere conducive to education. The school has established effective systems for monitoring pupil well-being, ensuring that there is always an adult available for support.
Pupils demonstrate enthusiasm for learning and engage actively in their education. They exhibit calmness in the classroom, taking turns and supporting one another. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, teachers address them promptly, fostering a culture of respect among students. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, allowing pupils to develop their skills in sports, music, and the arts. They participate in regional competitions and national performances, which enrich their educational experience. The curriculum promotes open-mindedness and acceptance of diverse cultures, with pupils reading literature from a wide range of authors and learning about global perspectives.
Parents generally express satisfaction with the education their children receive, although some are less aware of the school's provisions. School leaders recognize this and are working to improve communication with parents. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, with a clear focus on the knowledge that pupils need to acquire. Teachers regularly revisit key concepts, which helps pupils retain information and understand more complex ideas. The school has identified areas for improvement, particularly in mathematics, where Year 6 pupils did not perform as well as their peers nationally. Leaders have taken swift action to address this by refining the curriculum to enhance mathematical understanding.
Reading instruction is a priority, with teachers receiving training to ensure consistent teaching practices. Pupils are provided with books that contain familiar language, allowing them to practice their reading skills effectively. Reception-age children quickly acquire new sounds and become confident readers by Year 1. The school also offers targeted support for pupils who struggle with reading, enabling them to catch up rapidly.
The early years provision lays a strong foundation for future learning, with activities designed to help children develop language skills and positive interactions. Leaders are adept at adapting the curriculum for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary support. However, attendance remains a challenge for some pupils with SEND and those eligible for pupil premium funding, which can hinder their learning progress. Leaders are aware of this issue and are working to improve attendance rates.
Pupils display kindness and respect towards one another, reflecting the positive attitudes instilled by school leaders. They learn about healthy relationships and the impact of their behavior on others through the personal, social, and health education curriculum. Opportunities for leadership and representation, such as participating in the school parliament, help pupils develop an understanding of democracy and responsibility. The school’s commitment to fostering resilience and teamwork is evident in its forest school activities.
The school benefits from effective governance and support from the local authority and diocese, which helps ensure that leaders are held accountable for their decisions. Staff feel supported, and the strengths of the leadership team position the school well for future improvements. Safeguarding measures are robust, with regular training for staff to identify and address any concerns regarding pupil safety. Overall, Moreton Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School provides a good quality of education, with a strong emphasis on pupil well-being and academic achievement.
