Greenvale Primary School, located in Chatham, Kent, has recently undergone an inspection, with the overall effectiveness rated as good. The inspection took place on November 21 and 22, 2023, and the school has maintained its previous inspection grade of good. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good, reflecting a consistent standard of performance across various aspects of the school.
Pupils express a strong sense of belonging and pride in their school, highlighting its inclusive and welcoming environment. They are familiar with the school’s core values, which include respect, readiness, resourcefulness, responsibility, resilience, and reflectiveness. These values are integral to the school culture, and pupils articulate their significance in fostering a positive atmosphere. Kindness is also emphasized as a crucial element of the school community.
Behavior among pupils is commendable, with students demonstrating excellent conduct and adherence to established routines. The school promotes a sense of security and predictability, which pupils appreciate. Teachers maintain a calm demeanor while clearly communicating expectations, contributing to a conducive learning environment. Pupils are motivated to meet the high standards set by the school, and they are well-supported in developing their confidence and well-being.
The school has made significant strides in enhancing its curriculum since the last inspection. A comprehensive review has resulted in a well-structured and sequenced curriculum across all subjects. Staff receive ongoing training to ensure they are equipped to deliver the curriculum effectively, leading to positive outcomes for pupils. However, there are areas where further development is needed, particularly in clarifying the incremental steps required for pupils to acquire broader skills in certain subjects.
In the early years, the school prioritizes personal, social, and emotional development, alongside physical development and communication skills. Staff are attentive to the needs of each child, working closely with families to identify any special educational needs or disabilities early on. While the school has a solid foundation in early years education, there is a need for clearer planning regarding the specific knowledge and skills children should acquire by the end of Reception to ensure they are fully prepared for Year 1.
The school has recognized challenges in ensuring that all pupils achieve age-appropriate reading levels. A new phonics teaching approach was introduced to address this issue, but the pandemic hindered its implementation. Currently, the school is focused on helping pupils catch up, with many in Year 3 having made significant progress in their reading skills.
Greenvale Primary School has established a robust personal development program that supports pupils in understanding fairness, turn-taking, and democratic processes through classroom activities. Physical health and well-being are emphasized throughout the curriculum and extracurricular activities. The leadership team is dedicated and stable, fostering a positive environment for pupils, staff, and parents. They have a clear understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, demonstrating a commitment to providing a solid foundation for pupils’ personal and academic growth.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Moving forward, the school must prioritize the catch-up efforts for reading and enhance clarity in early years learning objectives to ensure all children are well-prepared for their future education. Overall, Greenvale Primary School is making commendable progress in its educational offerings and community engagement.
