Hoath Primary School, located in Canterbury, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 18, 2022. The school provides a stimulating and nurturing environment where pupils thrive and develop strong relationships with staff and peers. Parents express a deep appreciation for the school, describing it as an extension of their family. The positive atmosphere is evident in the way pupils engage with their learning, looking forward to the diverse opportunities offered, including the popular forest school program.
Teachers at Hoath Primary School are dedicated to making lessons engaging and interesting, which fosters a love for learning among pupils. The school promotes strong friendships, with older and younger students enjoying collaborative activities. The library is a cherished space where younger pupils eagerly anticipate reading sessions with their older peers, who serve as librarians.
High expectations are set for all pupils, who understand the importance of striving for their best. They are encouraged to learn from their mistakes, and this approach contributes to their overall positive behavior. Pupils are friendly, sociable, and polite, creating a safe environment where bullying is not tolerated. Staff are proactive in addressing any issues of unkindness, ensuring that pupils feel secure and supported.
Leadership at Hoath Primary School has undergone restructuring, with staff from the Chislet and Hoath Federation collaborating effectively to enhance curriculum delivery. The curriculum is broad and balanced, with a strong emphasis on reading and mathematics, which are well-embedded across the school. Leaders are actively working to strengthen the foundation subjects to ensure consistency in quality.
The reading curriculum is ambitious, with teachers committed to fostering a love for reading among pupils. They introduce phonics early in Reception, enabling children to develop essential reading and writing skills. The structured approach to phonics teaching ensures that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive the support they need to succeed.
Mathematics is taught skillfully, with an emphasis on using correct terminology from an early age. Pupils are encouraged to articulate their reasoning, which helps them build a solid understanding of mathematical concepts. The supportive environment allows pupils to view mistakes as part of the learning process, contributing to their enjoyment of the subject.
Parents and pupils appreciate the wide range of extracurricular opportunities available, including clubs and trips that broaden their experiences. The school promotes understanding and empathy through diverse cultural explorations within the curriculum. Pupils take pride in their responsibilities, such as serving on the school council or as librarians, which helps develop their personal skills.
Staff feel valued and supported by the headteacher, contributing to a positive working environment. They express pride in being part of the school community, which is well-led and managed. Parents echo this sentiment, highlighting the commitment of staff to instill a love of learning in their children and to build strong relationships with families.
Safeguarding measures at Hoath Primary School are effective, with the welfare of pupils being a top priority. Staff are well-trained and vigilant in identifying any potential risks to students. The school community fosters a culture of safety, where pupils look out for one another and feel secure in their environment.
While the school excels in many areas, there is a need for continued development in the sequencing and coherence of foundation subjects. Leaders are already taking steps to address this, ensuring that pupils receive a well-structured education that builds on their knowledge as they progress through the school. Overall, Hoath Primary School remains a good school, committed to providing a high-quality education for its pupils.
