Following the short inspection of Little Plumstead Church of England Primary School on 22 May 2018, it was confirmed that the school continues to maintain a good standard of education. The leadership team, under the guidance of Headteacher Mrs. Sonia Innes, has effectively upheld the quality of education since the last inspection in January 2014. The school is characterized by a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, dedicated to the holistic development of its pupils. All students are valued and supported, fostering an inclusive environment.
The leadership provided by Mrs. Innes is highly effective, supported by a skilled team of teaching and non-teaching staff who are committed to the success of all pupils. Feedback from parents reflects a strong appreciation for the dedication of the staff, highlighting their commitment to high-quality development for every child, regardless of background or ability. The staff are encouraged to be reflective and continuously improve their practice, drawing on both internal and external best practices.
Governance at the school is robust, with knowledgeable governors who provide balanced support and challenge. They are actively involved in the school’s development and improvement plans, ensuring that the school is well-prepared for future changes in the educational landscape. Teaching quality is good, with lessons tailored to meet the needs of pupils, utilizing assessments to identify and address learning gaps promptly. Observations during the inspection revealed effective teaching strategies, with strong relationships between staff and pupils contributing to a positive learning environment.
Pupils demonstrate pride in their school, reflected in high attendance rates and exemplary behavior. They are polite, courteous, and engaged in their learning, with emotional needs being well met. The curriculum is engaging and challenging, promoting a wide range of extracurricular activities that enhance pupils' skills and social development. Parents express high levels of support for the school, appreciating the nurturing environment and the focus on developing caring members of society.
Safeguarding practices are effective, with a strong culture of safety embedded throughout the school. Staff training is up to date, and there are thorough recruitment checks in place. Pupils are educated about safety, including online safety, and feel secure in the school environment. The inspection identified areas for improvement, particularly in the teaching of reading and mathematics. While reading is prioritized, there is a need for more regular and focused instruction in Years 1 and 2 to ensure all pupils make good progress. Similarly, strategies to enhance mathematical skills, particularly for pupils transitioning from Reception to Year 1, need to be embedded effectively.
The leadership team is aware of these challenges and is actively working to address them. Regular meetings to discuss pupil progress are held, although there is a need for more probing questions regarding the quality of teaching and learning in specific classes. Overall, the school is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of improvement, with a strong commitment from leadership, staff, and the governing body to ensure the best outcomes for all pupils.
