Located in the heart of Rainham, Gillingham, Kent, St Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Primary School has once again been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on February 6 and 7, 2024. This voluntary aided Catholic primary school, which caters to children aged 4 to 11, continues to thrive as a nurturing and vibrant educational environment.
The school is described as a busy, happy hive of activity, where students are engaged in a variety of enriching experiences. During the inspection, pupils participated in a geography field trip and cycling safety sessions, showcasing the school’s commitment to providing a well-rounded education. The staff at St Augustine’s are dedicated to ensuring that every child feels safe, heard, and valued. With effective communication channels such as class ‘worry boxes,’ students can express their concerns, knowing that staff will address them promptly.
Behaviour at St Augustine’s is generally commendable, with pupils adhering to the school’s expectations and demonstrating a strong work ethic. While there are occasional lapses in concentration among a few students, overall, the school maintains an orderly environment conducive to learning. The extensive school grounds provide ample opportunities for play and social interaction, fostering a sense of community among pupils.
Students are encouraged to take an active role in school life, participating in book panels, taking on responsibilities, and contributing to child-friendly policies. Their voices are valued, and their involvement is a testament to the school’s inclusive ethos.
St Augustine’s has developed an ambitious and meaningful curriculum that is carefully sequenced from Reception through to Year 6. This approach ensures that pupils build on their knowledge over time. The school actively seeks to incorporate students’ interests into subjects like physical education, recently introducing street dance and handball to the curriculum.
The mathematics curriculum is particularly well-structured, enabling pupils to quickly grasp fundamental concepts and apply their knowledge to real-life situations. Similarly, the school places a strong emphasis on early reading, with staff trained in phonics instruction to ensure that children develop strong reading skills from the outset.
The school is dedicated to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). While the identification of needs is accurate and plans are regularly reviewed, the implementation of these plans in the classroom can vary. The school is encouraged to ensure consistent support for all pupils, enabling them to fully engage with the learning process.
Beyond academics, St Augustine’s prioritizes the wider development of its pupils. The curriculum includes lessons on health and safety, both in the physical world and online. Pupils are encouraged to embody the school’s values of kindness, honesty, and respect, and they actively participate in charity initiatives, demonstrating their commitment to social responsibility.
The governing body plays a crucial role in the school’s success, providing support and challenge to ensure high standards are maintained. Staff feel supported by school leaders, particularly in relation to workload management and assessment practices.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their well-being is prioritized.
While St Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Primary School has much to celebrate, there are areas for improvement. The school is encouraged to continue supporting staff in fostering consistent engagement among all pupils and to enhance the effectiveness of support for those with SEND.
In conclusion, St Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Primary School stands as a model of excellence in education, combining academic rigor with a strong commitment to the holistic development of its pupils. With its dedicated staff, supportive community, and ambitious curriculum, the school is well-positioned to continue its journey of success in the years to come.
