Seal Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School in Kent has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 19 and 20, 2022. The school fosters an environment where pupils feel respected and safe, reflecting its core values in daily interactions among students and staff. Pupils express pride in their school and demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning from the early years. Their educational experiences extend beyond the classroom, including activities on the school farm and participation in various clubs such as choir, cooking, and sports.
The curriculum is designed to nurture pupils' talents while imparting essential knowledge. Staff maintain high expectations for all students, evident in the ambitious outcomes set for them. This includes opportunities for public speaking and preparing artwork for the school gallery. School leaders are committed to the ongoing development of the curriculum to ensure that all pupils achieve their potential.
The learning environment is calm and positive, with pupils reporting that any instances of bullying are promptly addressed by adults. Parents appreciate the dedication of teachers, who support both the educational and welfare needs of the children. The school has made significant strides in delivering a purposeful and engaging curriculum, with careful consideration given to the knowledge pupils should acquire from Nursery to Year 6, including vocabulary development and communication skills.
However, there are areas for improvement. In some subjects within the wider curriculum, the sequencing of knowledge taught is not yet clearly defined across year groups. This can hinder the building of prior knowledge in subjects like history and art. Leaders are actively working to ensure that the curriculum allows pupils to revisit important knowledge before introducing new concepts.
Reading is a priority at the school, with staff setting high expectations for pupils' reading achievements. Regular assessments help identify areas for improvement, and appropriate support is provided for those who struggle. This focus on reading enables pupils to engage with a broad range of texts across the curriculum. Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is generally appropriate, although some pupils are not yet making the expected progress. Leaders are implementing plans to ensure that all pupils benefit from timely interventions and staff expertise.
In the early years, children receive strong support from knowledgeable adults, encouraging them to develop a wide range of skills and knowledge through well-planned activities. Their communication and physical development are fostered through engaging experiences, such as outdoor construction activities and role-play.
Pupils exhibit good behavior and adhere to school rules, showing respect for staff and peers. Leaders promote positive behavior through clear routines and thoughtful lunchtime provisions that cater to the needs of all pupils. Staff feel supported and respected, with positive feedback regarding workload management and professional development opportunities.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address potential risks. Pupils feel confident that their concerns will be taken seriously, and there are clear systems in place for reporting issues. Recent audits have improved the quality of safeguarding records, and leaders take swift action to support pupils and families in need.
Overall, while the school demonstrates many strengths, there are ongoing efforts to refine the curriculum and ensure that all pupils, including those with special educational needs, achieve their best. The commitment of staff and leaders to continuous improvement is evident, contributing to the school's positive reputation within the community.
