Collingwood Primary School, located in South Woodham Ferrers, Essex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 15-16, 2021. The school is characterized by a welcoming and caring environment where pupils express enthusiasm for their learning and strive to perform their best. Students appreciate the opportunities to take on leadership roles, such as becoming learning ambassadors or eco ambassadors, and they actively participate in fundraising for charities. The school offers a diverse range of clubs, educational trips, and activities that enhance the curriculum, adapting these offerings in response to the restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pupils at Collingwood Primary are noted for their politeness and kindness, demonstrating a willingness to support one another. They have a clear understanding of bullying and report that it is infrequent at the school. In response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, school leaders implemented a recovery curriculum to address gaps in learning. This initiative focuses on reinforcing essential knowledge that students may have missed or not fully grasped during the previous academic year. Teachers have tailored their lesson plans to meet the individual needs of pupils, particularly in reading, writing, and mathematics.
Mathematics has been a focal point for improvement since the last inspection. The school has revamped its mathematics instruction and provided additional training for staff, ensuring that the curriculum builds progressively from Reception through Year 6. This approach has enabled pupils to develop problem-solving skills and articulate their reasoning effectively. The school also emphasizes the importance of revisiting common errors to enhance students' mathematical understanding.
Collingwood Primary prioritizes reading instruction, with staff trained in phonics and early reading strategies. Children are encouraged to read books that align with their phonetic knowledge, and additional support is provided for those who have fallen behind, particularly in Year 2. The school employs a structured reading program to expose pupils to a variety of literature and authors, fostering a broader reading experience.
The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive the necessary support to access the curriculum alongside their peers. Staff members are trained to address specific needs, such as speech and language support, enabling these pupils to achieve their potential.
Leaders at Collingwood Primary are dedicated to providing pupils with experiences that prepare them for life in modern Britain. Students understand the importance of equality and can articulate their knowledge of various faiths. They are encouraged to support those less fortunate and demonstrate a solid grasp of fundamental British values.
Looking ahead, the school recognizes the need for ongoing subject leader training to enhance teachers' subject knowledge and confidence in delivering the wider curriculum. The recovery curriculum is designed to bridge knowledge gaps and facilitate a return to a comprehensive and balanced curriculum across all subjects. The inspection highlighted the effectiveness of safeguarding arrangements, with staff trained to recognize and address concerns regarding pupil welfare. Overall, Collingwood Primary School continues to demonstrate a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for all its pupils.
