Dunton Green Primary School, located in Kent, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on March 26 and 27, 2024, and the school has maintained a good rating since its previous inspection in July 2018. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, and personal development were all rated as good, while leadership and management received an outstanding rating.
Pupils at Dunton Green Primary School express a strong sense of pride in their school, viewing it as a central part of their community. They feel safe and secure, and appreciate the inclusive environment that supports students from disadvantaged backgrounds. The school fosters a positive response to challenges, with pupils enjoying the diverse learning experiences provided, including visits from experts in various fields. Notably, older students were particularly engaged by a recent science activity involving dissection.
The pupil council plays an active role in school life, with members taking responsibility for improvements and contributing to a more enjoyable break time experience. They have also initiated a supportive space for peers facing challenges. The relationship between pupils and staff is characterized by high expectations and mutual respect, contributing to a positive atmosphere where poor behavior is rare.
Leadership at the school has been effective, establishing a solid foundation for future growth. Recent changes in leadership have revitalized the school's direction, with governors actively involved and working alongside external bodies to ensure ongoing success. Staff members report feeling empowered and supported, which is reflected in the positive classroom environment and pupils' attitudes towards learning.
The school is committed to improving the quality of education it provides. Collaboration with local educational hubs has strengthened its phonics and early reading programs, benefiting younger students. Additionally, partnerships with other schools in the federation are enhancing curriculum design and leadership, particularly in early years provision.
Classroom observations indicate that staff adapt their teaching effectively for students with special educational needs, ensuring that all pupils receive appropriate support. However, the school recognizes the need to further strengthen writing and mathematics instruction, as some pupils are not making the progress they are capable of in these areas. Leaders are actively addressing this by focusing on consistent teaching practices.
While the school excels in personal development, there are plans to enhance this aspect further. The school provides a range of extracurricular activities and promotes character building through various programs. The forest school initiative is particularly popular among pupils, and leaders aim to formalize its structure to enhance outdoor learning experiences.
The school has established strong partnerships with parents, contributing to effective pastoral care. Most parents express satisfaction with the support their children receive, although attendance rates, particularly for persistent absence, remain an area for improvement. The school is aware of this and is working to enhance overall attendance.
Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is focused on continuous improvement, with leaders committed to addressing areas that require attention, particularly in writing and mathematics, and enhancing attendance rates to ensure all pupils benefit from the quality education provided.
