Palmarsh Primary School, located in Hythe, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 1 and 2, 2019. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, with pupils expressing pride in their school and a commitment to its values of honesty, endeavour, ambition, resilience, and tolerance. The positive atmosphere is reinforced by the supportive relationships between staff, parents, and pupils, contributing to a family-like environment. Pupils are eager to meet the high expectations set by their teachers, demonstrating good behavior and collaboration in their learning.
The school has effectively implemented strategies to ensure that new pupils settle in quickly, thanks to the caring nature of the staff. Safety and happiness are prioritized, with pupils feeling comfortable discussing any concerns with adults. While some instances of arguments occur, bullying is reported to be rare, indicating a generally positive social environment.
Academically, pupils at Palmarsh Primary School are engaged and learn well across various subjects. They enjoy their lessons and are encouraged to apply their skills in mathematics, reading, and writing to enhance their learning in other areas. The curriculum is designed to foster a love of reading and to develop a broad knowledge base. The headteacher and governors have worked to create an exciting curriculum that builds on prior learning, allowing pupils to progress effectively.
The school has made recent changes to its curriculum structure, which leaders believe will further enhance learning outcomes. However, there is a need for improved communication with parents regarding these changes, as some parents and pupils are unclear about the reasons behind the new curriculum approach. This lack of clarity could hinder the overall understanding of how learning is structured over time.
Pupils demonstrate a strong enthusiasm for reading, beginning from their early years with a rich exposure to language through songs and rhymes. As they progress, they engage with a diverse range of texts that connect to their learning topics, fostering a deeper understanding of reading's significance. Teachers provide additional support for those who need to catch up, ensuring that all pupils develop into confident readers by the time they leave the school.
Mathematical understanding is also a focus, with early years pupils building foundational skills through play. As they advance, teachers integrate mathematical concepts into various subjects, helping pupils see the relevance of their learning. This approach not only enhances their mathematical skills but also encourages them to appreciate the interconnectedness of different subjects.
Extracurricular activities, including trips and community involvement, enrich pupils' understanding of the world. Opportunities such as performing with instruments and participating in local initiatives help foster a sense of pride and responsibility within the community. The school also emphasizes the importance of social skills through activities in its forest school.
While the overall behavior in the school has improved, some concerns remain regarding classroom behavior. Leaders have established clear expectations, and staff consistently address any issues, leading to a positive learning environment. Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is well-coordinated, ensuring they receive appropriate assistance to build confidence and knowledge.
The school's safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address any concerns regarding pupil safety. Overall, Palmarsh Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective learning environment, with ongoing efforts to enhance communication and curriculum clarity for parents and pupils.
