Acton Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School, located in Sudbury, Suffolk, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 19 and 20, 2023. The school has a strong sense of community, with pupils expressing pride in their school and demonstrating kindness towards one another. They feel safe and supported, trusting the adults in the school to address any concerns. The school motto, strive, support, succeed, is well understood by the students, who recognize its significance in their educational journey.
The leadership at Acton is committed to fostering an environment where pupils are encouraged to do their best. This commitment extends to students with special educational needs and disabilities, who achieve well alongside their peers. Reading is a significant focus, with most pupils enjoying it and engaging in discussions about the stories they encounter in lessons. Early learners receive adequate support to catch up if they fall behind, although some older pupils may not receive the precise assistance needed to improve their reading skills quickly.
The school emphasizes the principles of good behavior, and pupils respond positively to the high expectations set by the leaders. Early years children adapt well to established routines, and positive relationships are central to the school community. Leadership roles for pupils, such as faith councillors, are valued, and well-planned trips enhance the curriculum, enriching pupils' learning experiences and contributing to their overall development.
Leaders and governors have developed a broad and engaging curriculum, with strong relationships with parents and families that positively impact pupils' achievements. The curriculum is designed to build on prior knowledge, allowing pupils to revisit and apply what they have learned. Staff generally check for understanding effectively, although there are instances where starter activities and informal checks do not align closely with the intended learning outcomes. This misalignment can lead to wasted time and hinder some pupils' learning progress.
Reading has been prioritized, with a revised phonics scheme improving the accuracy and fluency of early learners. Most pupils needing to catch up with their reading receive support, but interventions for some older pupils could be more focused on addressing specific gaps in their phonics knowledge. This lack of precision can slow their reading improvement, which in turn affects their writing and spelling abilities.
Pupils with special educational needs receive the necessary support to learn alongside their peers and achieve well. The adaptations made for these pupils reflect high expectations, although they may involve smaller steps in learning tailored to individual needs. Leaders effectively support staff in implementing necessary changes, contributing to the success of pupils with SEND.
Behavior in the school is commendable, with principles of good behavior taught and promoted effectively. Staff use consistent language to reinforce expectations, helping pupils understand the importance of good behavior in their learning. Targeted support assists pupils in managing their emotions, enabling them to avoid negative reactions.
Wider educational experiences, such as visits to local attractions, enrich the curriculum and promote values of compassion and kindness. The personal, social, and health education curriculum, along with high-quality literature and assemblies, effectively instills respect for diversity and individual differences.
Leaders possess a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Governors actively engage with the school, and ongoing training ensures they have the skills to challenge leaders effectively. Staff appreciate the open-door policy of leaders and the attention given to their well-being. Parents express overwhelmingly positive views about the school's leadership and the broader team.
The safeguarding arrangements at Acton are effective, with leaders and governors aware of their responsibilities to keep pupils safe. Staff receive thorough training to address concerns promptly, and pupils are educated on managing risks, including online safety. Safeguarding records are detailed and monitored closely, ensuring that pupils and families receive timely support when needed.
While the school is performing well, there are areas for improvement. Some aspects of the curriculum are still developing, and there is a need for more precise checks on learning to ensure that pupils retain essential knowledge. Additionally, reading interventions for older pupils should be more sharply focused to enhance their phonics skills and overall literacy. By addressing these areas, Acton Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School can continue to build on its successes and further enhance the educational experience for all its pupils.
