The Greville Primary School in Ashtead, Surrey, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 15-16 October 2019. The school is characterized by a vibrant atmosphere where pupils are eager to attend and engage in a variety of activities. The excitement among students is palpable, as they participate in unique experiences such as caring for school chickens, joining a fencing club, and learning first aid skills. The behavior of the pupils is commendable; they listen attentively to their teachers and peers, contributing to a calm and focused classroom environment. The school’s values of inspire, nurture, and achieve are well understood and embraced by the students, who report that bullying is rare and that staff are always available to address any concerns.
Safety is a priority at The Greville Primary School, with staff demonstrating a deep understanding of the pupils' needs. The high levels of care and support provided enable all students, including those with challenging backgrounds, to thrive. The sense of community is strong, with parents and staff collaborating to enhance the school environment, evidenced by fundraising efforts for facilities like an all-weather pitch and additional seating in the school hall.
The leadership team, including staff and governors, maintains high expectations for student achievement and enjoyment in learning. They are committed to delivering a broad and engaging curriculum, which has resulted in high standards and performance that exceed national averages. Recent changes in curriculum planning are being implemented to ensure that lessons in subjects beyond English and mathematics are effectively sequenced for optimal learning. Leaders are aware of the need to monitor the impact of these changes closely.
Reading is a focal point for the school, especially following a decline in national reading test results. The staff has received training in a new phonics program, which has led to increased confidence in teaching reading to younger pupils. The selection of texts is carefully curated to foster a love of reading and enhance vocabulary and comprehension skills. The school’s libraries are well-stocked, providing access to a diverse range of authors, and pupils are engaged during storytime at the end of the school day.
The curriculum extends beyond academics, with pupils participating in numerous extracurricular activities, including music and sports. Opportunities for residential trips help develop confidence and resilience among students. The school is dedicated to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive the necessary support to succeed academically and emotionally.
In the early years, children are happy and settled, responding well to routines and engaging in play. However, there is a need for improvement in how staff interact with children during activities to enhance learning. Leaders are taking steps to address this.
Overall, the school is well-regarded by parents, who express satisfaction with their children's experiences. Staff feel supported and proud to work at The Greville Primary School, contributing to a positive educational environment. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to any concerns regarding pupil welfare. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with leaders actively seeking to enhance the quality of education and support for all students.
