Aldington Primary School, located in Ashford, Kent, has recently undergone an inspection on February 6 and 7, 2024, and has been rated as good overall. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing quality education, with particular strengths in personal development, which has been rated as outstanding. The school has maintained its good rating since the previous inspection in June 2018.
Pupils at Aldington Primary School express pride in their school and are enthusiastic about their experiences. They appreciate the nurturing environment that fosters friendships and a love for nature, particularly through the forest school program. This approach helps develop resilience and character among students. The school council, house captains, and reading buddies are roles that pupils cherish, and they feel supported in addressing any concerns they may have, contributing to a safe and secure atmosphere.
Behaviour at the school is consistently good, with pupils showing diligence in their learning. They feel valued and included, which motivates them to strive for high academic and personal standards. From the Reception Year, pupils are encouraged to develop independence and confidence, which is evident in their overall engagement and attitude towards learning.
The curriculum at Aldington Primary School is broad and enriched with various extracurricular activities and educational trips. Pupils frequently explore local woodlands and participate in clubs that promote new skills, such as sports and animal care. These experiences not only enhance their learning but also foster strong relationships and character development.
Leadership at the school is effective, with a clear vision for excellence in both care and academic achievement. The school leaders have a solid understanding of their strengths and areas for improvement, focusing on staff development to benefit pupils. The high aspirations set by the school are evident in its practices and outcomes.
Pupils achieve well in core subjects like English and mathematics, and the school is committed to ensuring that they succeed across the entire curriculum. Recent measures have been implemented to enhance the teaching order of subjects, allowing pupils to build their knowledge more securely. However, as the school introduces new curriculums, staff are still familiarizing themselves with the specific knowledge and skills required, which has led to some gaps in learning for pupils.
Teachers at Aldington Primary School utilize their subject knowledge effectively to engage pupils. For instance, in Reception, children are inspired to observe nature closely, enhancing their artistic skills. Older pupils learn various techniques in art, and those with special educational needs receive tailored support to ensure they can access the same challenging curriculum as their peers.
Questioning techniques employed by adults in the classroom encourage pupils to reflect on their learning and engage in discussions, reinforcing their understanding of new concepts. This method is particularly effective in well-established subjects like mathematics, although the school acknowledges that there are gaps in learning in areas where new curriculums are being implemented. Teachers use assessments effectively to identify where pupils may need additional support.
Reading instruction is a strong point at Aldington Primary School, with a robust phonics program in place from the Reception Year. Teachers are proactive in identifying children who may struggle and provide targeted assistance to help them succeed. The alignment of reading materials with the phonics being taught boosts pupils' confidence and fluency. The love for reading is cultivated through regular story times, which continues throughout the school.
Personal development is a notable strength, with pupils learning the importance of kindness and respect from an early age. Staff model positive behaviour, fostering a culture of respect and understanding. Pupils are educated about healthy relationships, personal boundaries, and the significance of equality. They also learn about various cultures and faiths, preparing them for life in modern Britain.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Moving forward, the school aims to address the gaps in learning associated with the new curriculum, ensuring that staff deliver it with confidence and that pupils have the necessary foundational knowledge to succeed in their future learning endeavors. Overall, Aldington Primary School is a thriving educational environment that prioritizes the well-being and development of its pupils while maintaining high academic standards.
