Aycliffe Community Primary School, located in Dover, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on December 1, 2022. The school is characterized by its strong values of caring, tolerance, passion, reflection, and innovation, which are evident in the positive experiences of its pupils. Students express that they feel happy and safe, attributing this to the strong friendships they form and the supportive relationships they build with staff. Parents also hold the school in high regard, with many expressing their satisfaction with the education and care their children receive.
The staff at Aycliffe Community Primary School are dedicated to ensuring that pupils achieve their best. The curriculum is diverse and engaging, allowing students to excel in various subjects. Pupils demonstrate a solid understanding of mathematics and can recall facts learned in previous lessons, showcasing their retention of knowledge across subjects, including art. The school maintains high expectations for behavior and attitudes, and pupils generally behave well, understanding the rules and responding positively to the school's approach to discipline. Incidents of bullying are addressed promptly and effectively, ensuring a safe environment for all students.
Beyond the classroom, pupils have numerous opportunities to explore their interests and talents. They participate in pupil panels, which allow them to engage with school leaders about potential improvements, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility in their education. The curriculum is ambitious and inclusive, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders have taken significant steps to improve outcomes in key stage two, focusing on essential knowledge and skills that pupils should acquire over time.
Reading is prioritized at Aycliffe Community Primary School, with a strong emphasis on phonics instruction in the early years. Children receive a solid foundation in reading, supported by well-resourced classrooms and outdoor areas that enhance their learning experience. Staff are well-trained to help pupils develop their phonetic knowledge, and those who struggle are quickly identified and provided with the necessary support to catch up. The school ensures that pupils have access to a wide range of high-quality reading materials that match their abilities, fostering a love for reading through library visits and storytelling sessions.
The school is committed to the personal development of its pupils, offering a rich array of experiences that promote respect, health awareness, and an understanding of different cultures and religions. Pupils participate in various trips that complement their learning and broaden their horizons, such as visits to the port of Dover to learn about business and industry.
Leaders at Aycliffe Community Primary School are mindful of staff workload and well-being, fostering a supportive environment where staff feel valued. This positive atmosphere contributes to a high level of job satisfaction among teachers, which ultimately benefits the pupils.
Safeguarding measures at the school are robust, with all staff receiving appropriate training to recognize and respond to potential risks. The school has effective systems in place for reporting and addressing concerns, ensuring that pupils are kept safe and taught how to protect themselves, including online safety.
While the school excels in many areas, there is a need for improvement in assessing pupils' achievements in some foundation subjects. Leaders are encouraged to develop a clearer understanding of how to evaluate pupils' skills and knowledge in these areas to inform future teaching strategies.
Overall, Aycliffe Community Primary School continues to provide a high-quality education in a nurturing environment, with strong leadership and a commitment to the well-being and development of its pupils. The school is well-regarded by parents and the community, and it remains focused on continuous improvement to ensure that all students achieve their full potential.
