Harrietsham Church of England Primary School, located in Maidstone, Kent, has recently undergone an inspection on 20 and 21 February 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has demonstrated a commitment to providing a high-quality education, with positive evaluations across various aspects including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all rated as good.
Pupils describe the school as a gigantic family, fostering a sense of belonging and security. Despite recent expansions in pupil numbers, the school has successfully maintained a small school feel, which is appreciated by both pupils and staff. The school has clear expectations for pupil achievement, and even through a leadership transition, high ambitions for behaviour and learning have been upheld. Pupils are encouraged to be their true selves and strive for their best, taking pride in their learning from Reception onwards.
The school promotes inclusivity and teaches pupils to appreciate differences, ensuring that everyone feels welcome. This inclusive environment allows all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged and those with special educational needs and disabilities, to actively participate in the school community. Pupils feel confident in discussing any worries with trusted adults, knowing that their concerns will be addressed promptly.
The curriculum is designed to be interesting and reflective of the diverse community, with a well-structured progression of knowledge and skills from Year 1 onwards. For instance, in geography, pupils build their understanding of fieldwork skills progressively, starting with simple locations and advancing to using scaled maps and coordinates by Year 6. However, the curriculum in Reception, while established, requires further refinement to ensure that the most important content is clearly defined.
Pupils exhibit good behaviour and trust that adults will listen and treat them respectfully. This positive atmosphere is particularly evident among the school’s Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller communities, who feel celebrated and understood. Consistent routines and high expectations are apparent in lessons, and pupils articulate their thoughts and feelings effectively, using language they have been taught. Playtimes are characterized by cheerful interactions, and pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning, reflected in their punctuality.
The school is dedicated to developing well-rounded citizens, prioritizing opportunities that broaden pupils' horizons, especially for those who are most disadvantaged. Staff provide exciting experiences, such as music events at the Royal Albert Hall, which contribute to character development. The school’s values of love, forgiveness, and fellowship create a nurturing environment.
Leadership at all levels is committed to the school’s future, with governors maintaining consistency during a leadership transition. They challenge the school to ensure continuous improvement, and interim leaders have effectively supported staff development. Feedback from parents indicates that children feel listened to and are encouraged to do their best.
While the school has many strengths, it faces challenges regarding attendance, particularly among disadvantaged pupils, who miss important learning opportunities. The school must intensify efforts to engage families in improving attendance. Additionally, the curriculum in Reception needs to be more precisely defined to ensure clarity in the knowledge and skills to be emphasized across all areas.
Overall, Harrietsham Church of England Primary School is a welcoming and supportive environment that fosters positive relationships and encourages pupil achievement, while also recognizing areas for improvement to enhance the educational experience for all students.
