Kingston St Mary Church of England Primary School is recognized as a good school, as confirmed by its recent inspection on December 7, 2021. The school is characterized by a nurturing environment where pupils embody values such as kindness, respect, responsibility, and resilience. Students describe their school as a calm, safe, and enjoyable place for learning, fostering positive relationships that enhance their educational experience. The staff at Kingston St Mary are dedicated and maintain high expectations for all pupils, which is evident in both classroom settings and throughout the school. Older students take on leadership roles, supporting younger peers and contributing to a strong sense of community.
The school has a commendable approach to safeguarding, with effective measures in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all students. Bullying is reported to be exceptionally rare, and pupils feel confident that any issues will be addressed promptly by the staff. Parents express overwhelming satisfaction with the school, with all respondents in the Parent View survey indicating they would recommend it to others.
Leadership at Kingston St Mary is effective, with governors and school leaders demonstrating a thorough understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. The well-being of staff is prioritized, particularly in light of challenges posed by the pandemic. Leaders have focused on maintaining a consistent educational experience for pupils, ensuring that both learning and well-being are supported.
The reading curriculum is particularly strong, with teachers and teaching assistants possessing the expertise necessary to facilitate effective learning. From the onset of their education in Reception Year, pupils engage with phonics, and those at risk of falling behind receive timely support. This structured approach enables students to develop strong reading skills early on, fostering a love for literature that continues into later years. Older pupils express enthusiasm for reading and appreciate the resources available in the school library.
While the school excels in many areas, there are still challenges to address, particularly in the foundation subjects such as history, geography, and art. The impact of the pandemic has hindered progress in these areas, and curriculum planning is still in its early stages. Consequently, pupils may not retain as much knowledge in these subjects as they could. The mathematics curriculum is well-structured, with teachers employing various strategies to support student learning, including the use of manipulatives for independent practice.
The leadership of special educational needs and disabilities is effective, with a strong focus on early identification and support for pupils. The school ethos is enriched by its Christian values, providing students with numerous opportunities for spiritual development and extracurricular engagement. The school offers a variety of clubs and activities, which are well-received by pupils.
In summary, Kingston St Mary Church of England Primary School continues to provide a high-quality education in a supportive environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in the foundation subjects, the school demonstrates a commitment to enhancing the educational experience for all pupils. The leadership team is proactive in addressing challenges and ensuring that the curriculum is effectively planned and delivered. The positive relationships among staff, pupils, and parents contribute to a thriving school community where students feel safe, valued, and eager to learn.
