Victoria Road Primary School in Ashford, Kent, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, receiving a Good rating in its recent inspection conducted on May 21 and 22, 2024. The school is characterized by a caring and inclusive environment where pupils feel proud to attend. Positive relationships between staff and students foster a culture of enthusiasm for learning, with pupils actively participating in lessons and demonstrating a passion for their education. The high expectations set by teachers contribute to the success of most pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, who achieve well and are prepared for their future educational steps.
Pupils express happiness and a sense of safety within the school, supported by trusted adults who address their concerns. The school’s values of fairness, honesty, enjoyment, respect, and courage are well understood and reflected in the students' excellent conduct and courteous behavior. Opportunities for responsibility are abundant, with older pupils serving as role models and welcoming prospective parents during school tours. The school encourages community involvement, with pupils participating in litter-picking and recycling projects, fundraising for local and national charities, and engaging with residents of local care homes during festive events.
The curriculum at Victoria Road Primary School is broad and ambitious, designed to help pupils acquire essential skills and knowledge in a logical sequence. Teachers effectively revisit prior learning, allowing pupils to deepen their understanding over time. Staff are adept at identifying the needs of pupils with SEND and make necessary adaptations to the curriculum, ensuring that most of these pupils achieve well. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly regarding the curriculum for a small number of pupils with SEND, which requires more careful design to enhance their learning outcomes.
Teachers are skilled in explaining concepts clearly and using subject-specific vocabulary effectively. While most subjects see teachers checking pupils' understanding and planning support accordingly, there are instances where activities do not fully align with the ambitious curriculum, hindering deeper learning. The school has made swift improvements in mathematics, providing ample opportunities for pupils to develop reasoning and problem-solving skills. Reading instruction begins in Reception, with highly trained staff teaching phonics effectively, ensuring that all pupils, including those with English as an additional language, receive the support they need.
The school environment is calm and purposeful, with pupils demonstrating positive attitudes towards learning. They engage deeply in lessons and play inclusively during breaks. Attendance is closely monitored, and leaders provide support to families to improve attendance rates. A rich array of extracurricular activities enhances pupils' wider development, including visits to art galleries and historical sites, as well as opportunities to participate in various clubs and sports.
Parents express strong satisfaction with the school, appreciating the exciting opportunities provided for their children. Staff feel supported and benefit from high-quality training that enhances their teaching practices. The governing body shares the leaders' high ambitions and effectively holds them accountable. The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, while Victoria Road Primary School excels in many areas, there are specific aspects of the curriculum and support for SEND pupils that require further attention to ensure all students achieve their full potential.
