Sibertswold Church of England Primary School, located in Shepherdswell, Dover, Kent, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, receiving a Good rating in various areas including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where pupils express happiness upon arrival and feel valued by the staff. The headteacher and other staff members greet students warmly, fostering a sense of belonging and community. Pupils appreciate the school's inclusive environment, where differences are celebrated, and they feel safe and supported.
The school prioritizes the well-being of its students, ensuring that they thrive regardless of their individual needs. Teachers are noted for making learning enjoyable, with activities such as forest school and daily reading sessions that promote a love for literature. The learning environment is calm and purposeful, free from bullying or discrimination, which contributes to the positive behavior observed among pupils. They are described as polite, kind, and caring, with older students serving as role models for younger peers. Parents have expressed satisfaction with the school's efforts to keep their children happy and safe, as well as their appreciation for the effective communication from school leaders.
Sibertswold provides a broad and engaging curriculum that is well-structured, allowing teachers to deliver lessons effectively. The curriculum is designed to help pupils develop a rich vocabulary and essential skills that will benefit them in the future. While subjects like English and mathematics are well-established, some newer subjects are still being integrated into the curriculum. Subject leaders possess good knowledge but need to enhance their leadership skills to monitor and assess the effectiveness of the new schemes of work. This will help ensure that pupils are building their knowledge progressively.
The teaching of phonics is organized effectively, starting in the Reception Year, with appropriate resources provided to support pupils' reading development. Teachers are proactive in identifying students who may need additional help, ensuring that they receive the necessary support to catch up. The school emphasizes the importance of reading for enjoyment, which has resulted in pupils becoming confident and fluent readers.
Pupils demonstrate excellent behavior in lessons and throughout the school, adhering to high expectations set by their teachers. When attention wanes, teachers manage the situation effectively to minimize disruption. The Reception Year students adapt quickly to routines, showcasing the school's successful approach to early education.
Leaders are committed to fostering independence and resilience among pupils, providing numerous opportunities for them to explore their talents beyond academics. Pupils have shown enthusiasm for extracurricular activities, such as a recent trip to the Folkestone Arts Festival, which inspired their artistic pursuits. The school promotes respect and empathy, encouraging pupils to support those less fortunate, exemplified by their fundraising efforts for children in Burkina Faso.
The staff at Sibertswold are dedicated and feel supported in their roles. They appreciate the consideration given to their workload by senior leaders. Parents commend the school's response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in maintaining learning and emotional well-being during lockdowns.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong culture of safety prioritized by staff and governors. The headteacher is well-acquainted with the pupils and their families, ensuring that all staff are trained to recognize and address any concerns promptly. Overall, Sibertswold Church of England Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils are encouraged to excel academically and personally, supported by a committed staff and engaged community.
