Mersham Primary School, located in Ashford, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 22 and 23, 2022. The school is characterized by a positive atmosphere where pupils express a strong affection for their learning environment. The relationships between pupils and staff are notably positive, fostering a sense of well-being that is prioritized by all leaders and staff members. Teachers are committed to making lessons engaging and enjoyable, which encourages pupils to strive for their best and take pride in their accomplishments. The school promotes collaboration among students of different ages, enhancing the community spirit.
Leaders at Mersham Primary School are dedicated to providing the best possible education for their pupils. They have implemented the ‘Mersham Century’ initiative, which includes a variety of 100 additional activities designed to enrich the students' educational experience. Parents have expressed appreciation for the opportunities their children have to create lasting memories during their time at the school. The school environment is safe and nurturing, with pupils feeling valued and confident in addressing any concerns with adults. The commitment to inclusion and equality is evident, with a strong ethos of respect and happiness cultivated by the headteacher and leadership team.
The school has made significant strides in developing a comprehensive and ambitious curriculum that identifies essential knowledge and skills for pupils. While most students achieve well, there is recognition that some could benefit from enhanced support to deepen their understanding. Leaders are actively exploring methods to assess pupils' comprehension more effectively during lessons to ensure all students can reach their full potential. The school emphasizes a well-rounded education, offering a diverse range of trips, visits, and extracurricular activities, which are integral to the curriculum.
Mersham Primary School places a strong emphasis on personal, social, health, and economic education, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The school aims to foster independence and resilience among its pupils. The early years program is particularly effective, with children in Reception demonstrating enthusiasm for participation and cooperation. The school also excels in supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum and opportunities for success.
The teaching staff collaborates effectively, creating a supportive environment where staff feel valued and prioritized. High expectations for pupil behavior are maintained, resulting in a friendly and polite student body. Pupils demonstrate excellent concentration and positive attitudes towards learning, respecting differing opinions and managing any behavioral challenges effectively.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with a well-structured phonics program in place. Children are introduced to phonics early on, allowing them to develop strong reading skills as they progress through the school. The mathematics curriculum is also carefully sequenced, providing ample opportunities for pupils to engage with numbers and develop their mathematical language and reasoning.
The school has established effective safeguarding measures, with well-trained staff who are vigilant in identifying and addressing any risks to pupils. Procedures for reporting concerns are robust, ensuring that all necessary actions are taken promptly. Overall, Mersham Primary School continues to provide a high-quality education, with a commitment to improvement and the well-being of its pupils.
