English Martyrs' Catholic Primary School in Strood, Rochester, Kent, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on July 12 and 13, 2023. The school was rated as good across all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This reflects the school's commitment to providing a supportive and effective learning environment for its pupils.
Pupils at the school take pride in their educational experience, demonstrating a strong work ethic and good behaviour. They navigate the school calmly and are eager to succeed academically, showing enthusiasm for learning. The school fosters a culture of respect, ensuring that every pupil feels valued and included, which contributes to a harmonious atmosphere. Parents express positive sentiments about the school, often describing it as caring and friendly.
Safety is a priority at English Martyrs', with pupils feeling secure and confident that staff will address any concerns they may have. This assurance helps to mitigate worries about bullying, as any issues are promptly resolved. The school is seen as a peaceful and inspiring place by its students. There are numerous opportunities for pupils to engage in the wider school community, such as becoming reading buddies or joining the eco committee, which they approach with enthusiasm and responsibility.
The curriculum is well-structured, with a strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy. Leaders have designed a curriculum that builds progressively from early years to Year 6, aligning with national standards. The school has successfully implemented effective teaching strategies, particularly in early reading, where phonics instruction is prioritized. Staff are well-trained to support pupils in developing their reading skills, and those who struggle receive timely assistance to help them catch up.
While the school excels in many areas, there are some subjects, such as art and design, where the planning of lessons could be improved to ensure that pupils build their knowledge more effectively. Teachers are focused on enhancing pupils' language skills, which aids in their understanding and allows for the identification of misconceptions. Regular assessments help teachers adapt their instruction to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Behaviour management is effective, with staff utilizing the school's values to guide pupils in making positive choices. Any low-level disruptions are addressed swiftly to maintain a conducive learning environment. Pupils are encouraged to develop independence in their learning, which is evident in their ability to manage tasks and reflect on their beliefs and values.
Governors play an active role in the school, ensuring that leaders are held accountable and that resources are used effectively. They regularly visit the school to engage with staff and gather information. However, there is a need for improvement in maintaining up-to-date statutory information for parents.
Overall, English Martyrs' Catholic Primary School is a well-regarded institution that provides a nurturing and effective educational experience for its pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with leaders and staff dedicated to ensuring that all students achieve their potential in a safe and supportive environment. The inspection highlighted the school's strengths while also identifying areas for further development, particularly in the planning of certain subjects and the management of statutory information.
