Monkton Church of England Primary School has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 30, 2024. The school emphasizes values such as compassion, courage, and justice, which are integral to the educational experience it offers. Pupils demonstrate positive behavior and express enjoyment in their school environment. The school provides tailored support for students with special educational needs and disabilities, reflecting its commitment to high aspirations for all children. The curriculum includes engaging activities, such as crochet and music tuition, alongside regular outdoor learning that fosters teamwork and communication skills.
The school organizes curriculum museum days to showcase student achievements to parents and carers, enhancing community involvement. Pupils participate in various workshops and educational trips, including visits to the Royal Observatory, which stimulate their curiosity. Leadership opportunities are available for students, who take pride in roles such as house captains and librarians. The school encourages charitable initiatives, with students actively involved in fundraising and community support, including establishing a village food bank.
The school effectively structures learning to accommodate mixed-age classes, particularly excelling in reading and geography. Pupils develop mapping skills progressively, with clear objectives for each year group. The school is attentive to the needs of students with SEND, providing necessary support. Teachers employ frequent recall activities to reinforce understanding and ensure that pupils grasp essential concepts. However, there are instances where tasks and resources do not fully align with intended learning outcomes, which can hinder some pupils' progress.
Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with staff skilled in phonics instruction. Early years students make significant strides in reading, and teachers closely monitor pupils' reading abilities to provide additional support where needed. This approach helps identify the needs of students with SEND promptly. Overall, pupils achieve well in reading and across the curriculum, including those who are disadvantaged, preparing them effectively for future educational endeavors.
Despite the school's strengths, attendance rates remain lower than desired. Leaders have implemented strategies to address persistent absence, showing improvements in individual cases, but overall attendance has not yet reached optimal levels. This situation results in some pupils missing valuable instructional time. The school environment is characterized by good behavior, with pupils being attentive in class and enjoying social interactions during breaks. Staff manage behavior effectively, fostering a supportive atmosphere where pupils feel confident in addressing concerns.
The school ensures that all pupils benefit from a broad range of opportunities, exploring moral questions and learning about various faiths. Current affairs are discussed, encouraging pupils to consider their roles as active citizens. The curriculum is designed with the school's context in mind, including safety education relevant to local circumstances. Engagement with parents is a priority, with feedback mechanisms in place to enhance the school's offerings.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, focusing on enhancing the quality of education and addressing attendance issues. The inspection highlighted the need for ongoing efforts to ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential and benefit from the educational experiences provided. The school community, including staff and governors, is dedicated to fostering a positive and inclusive environment for learning.
