St Gregory Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School in Sudbury, Suffolk, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on December 13 and 14, 2022. The school provides a positive learning environment where pupils are happy and engaged in their education. Classrooms are calm and conducive to learning, allowing students to focus effectively. The school offers various trips and visits that enhance the learning experience, such as a trip to see the musical Matilda, which followed a related book study. Additionally, a wide range of extracurricular clubs nurtures students' talents outside the classroom, with the school choir performing at notable venues.
Pupils at St Gregory are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as leading prayers and serving as team point monitors. The school council plays a significant role in allowing students to voice their opinions and contribute to school improvements, exemplified by the creation of a kindness corner for quieter play. The school prioritizes pupil safety, ensuring that students feel secure and know whom to approach with concerns, including issues of bullying.
The curriculum at St Gregory is well-structured, designed to build knowledge progressively. Most subjects are taught effectively, with teachers demonstrating strong subject knowledge and clear communication. They introduce new vocabulary with thorough explanations, aiding pupils' understanding and application of new concepts. Regular assessments help teachers identify and address any misunderstandings promptly.
However, some subjects lack consistent monitoring by subject leaders, which can lead to discrepancies between the intended curriculum and its implementation. This has resulted in pupils not frequently revisiting and practicing prior learning, affecting their overall achievement. Leaders are aware of this issue and are working to ensure that all subjects receive the necessary oversight to enhance pupil outcomes.
The school places a strong emphasis on developing confident readers and writers from an early age. In the nursery, children engage with sounds in words and participate enthusiastically in storytime. Reception pupils quickly learn letter sounds, aiding their ability to read simple words. The focus on reading continues through book studies for older pupils, with prompt interventions for those who may be falling behind.
Staff at St Gregory are well-acquainted with their pupils, allowing for the early identification of those with special educational needs and disabilities. Appropriate support is tailored to meet individual needs, ensuring that most pupils with SEND achieve their best. The inclusion of pupils from the specialist support unit in mainstream activities fosters a sense of belonging and community.
High expectations for behavior are upheld throughout the school, contributing to a productive learning atmosphere. Early years children are particularly engaged and confident, following routines and exploring a variety of activities that promote their development.
Leaders effectively promote personal, social, and health education, teaching pupils about healthy relationships and well-being in an age-appropriate manner. This education fosters respectful, tolerant, and resilient citizens. The governing body, despite some new members, is knowledgeable about the school and actively supports and challenges leaders to drive continuous improvement.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Gregory are robust, with a positive culture established around pupil safety. Staff are well-trained to recognize and report concerns, and leaders collaborate with external agencies to provide necessary support for families. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety, ensuring they are well-informed about how to protect themselves in various contexts.
Overall, St Gregory Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong focus on pupil well-being, academic achievement, and community involvement. The school is committed to ongoing improvement, particularly in ensuring consistent curriculum delivery across all subjects.
