Woodchurch Church of England Primary School, located in Ashford, Kent, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on May 16 and 17, 2023. The school is characterized by a nurturing environment where pupils feel a strong sense of belonging, often describing it as a family. The core values of compassion, hope, forgiveness, thankfulness, and love are deeply embedded in the school's culture. The leadership's vision, encapsulated in the phrase let your light shine, drives efforts to cultivate self-assured and kind pupils who are prepared to contribute positively to society. Parents express satisfaction with the school, highlighting its safe and welcoming atmosphere.
The school has high aspirations for all pupils, ensuring they engage with an ambitious curriculum and achieve success. Pupils demonstrate focus during lessons, perform well academically, and enjoy their learning experiences. They respect their teachers and are motivated by the reward system in place, which includes earning points for positive behavior. The school offers numerous opportunities for learning beyond the classroom, including activities in the local community. Pupils participate in engaging experiences such as cooking workshops and forest school activities, which enhance their learning and personal development.
The curriculum has been refined and updated, particularly in mathematics and phonics, which are taught effectively. Leaders have clearly defined what needs to be taught and in what sequence, allowing for a structured approach to learning. Teachers are skilled in connecting new concepts to prior knowledge, aiding long-term retention. Special educational needs and disabilities are well-supported, with tailored interventions and resources ensuring that all pupils can access the same curriculum.
Despite these strengths, there are areas for improvement. The assessment of pupils' understanding is not as rigorous as it could be, particularly in subjects outside of mathematics and phonics. While some teachers effectively revisit concepts to reinforce learning, others may miss opportunities to address misconceptions, which can hinder pupil progress. Leaders are aware of this issue and are actively working with teachers to enhance their assessment practices.
Reading instruction is a strong point, with a consistent approach to teaching phonics from the start of school. Staff are knowledgeable and committed to ensuring that every pupil succeeds in reading. They monitor progress closely and provide support to those who may be falling behind, enabling pupils to read books that align with their learning.
The school places significant emphasis on personal, social, and health education, teaching pupils about healthy relationships, diversity, and respect for others. Pupils engage in various roles that promote responsibility and community involvement, such as house captains and school councillors. Extracurricular activities and initiatives encourage pupils to explore their interests and develop their talents.
Governance is effective, with governors fulfilling their responsibilities and ensuring that funding is allocated appropriately. They have a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for development, which they address through strategic planning with school leaders.
The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with leaders being proactive in monitoring pupil welfare. Staff are well-trained in safeguarding protocols and are vigilant in identifying and addressing any concerns. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety, ensuring they are well-informed about how to protect themselves.
Overall, Woodchurch Church of England Primary School provides a supportive and effective educational environment, with a strong focus on academic achievement and personal development. The school is committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that all pupils can thrive and succeed.
