Stelling Minnis Church of England Primary School is a voluntary controlled primary school located in a small village setting in Canterbury, Kent. The school has a total of 84 pupils enrolled, with a mixed gender demographic. The recent inspection conducted on June 8 and 9, 2022, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good, with specific areas such as behaviour and attitudes rated as outstanding. The school has maintained a good standard since its previous inspection in March 2017.
Pupils at Stelling Minnis thrive in a nurturing environment where they feel included and encouraged to excel. The school fosters a strong sense of community, with pupils expressing happiness and valuing the friendships they form. Parents have noted the familial atmosphere, highlighting the positive relationships between staff and students. The school’s core values of love, respect, and perseverance are deeply embedded in its culture, contributing to the high levels of respect pupils show towards each other and adults.
The quality of education is commendable, with a broad and engaging curriculum that caters to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The early years provision is particularly strong, providing children with an excellent start to their educational journey. Pupils demonstrate curiosity, concentration, and enjoyment in their learning, which is evident in their positive attitudes and resilience in the face of challenges.
Reading is a significant focus within the school, with effective teaching methods in place to support early reading skills. The phonics programme is well-structured, allowing children to quickly learn new sounds and apply their phonics knowledge to reading unfamiliar words. The love of reading is cultivated from the outset, with pupils being introduced to a variety of high-quality texts that they enjoy discussing.
Teachers at Stelling Minnis utilize their subject knowledge effectively to engage pupils in meaningful discussions and check their understanding. There is a strong emphasis on vocabulary development, which begins in the early years and continues throughout the curriculum. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that the curriculum is refined to allow pupils to build their skills in greater depth and challenge.
The school has successfully addressed learning gaps caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring that the breadth and balance of the curriculum are restored. Leaders are actively monitoring pupil progress to prevent any individuals or groups from falling behind. Pupils take pride in their school and are engaged in various leadership roles, demonstrating a strong sense of responsibility and understanding of diversity.
Staff members feel well-supported and valued, contributing to a positive working environment characterized by teamwork. The school prioritizes safeguarding, with effective measures in place to ensure the well-being and safety of all pupils. Staff are trained to recognize signs of potential harm and follow appropriate procedures to address any concerns.
In summary, Stelling Minnis Church of England Primary School provides a supportive and effective educational experience for its pupils. While the school excels in many areas, there is a commitment to continuous improvement, particularly in refining the curriculum to enhance pupil learning outcomes further. The strong community spirit, dedicated staff, and focus on pupil well-being create an environment where children can flourish academically and personally.
