Ash Grange Primary School, located in Aldershot, Hampshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 11-12, 2020. The school is committed to celebrating the achievements of all its pupils, fostering a supportive environment where students feel safe and valued. The core values of the school, encapsulated in the phrase we care, we learn, we shine, guide its operations and interactions among staff, pupils, and parents. The dedication of the staff is evident, as they strive to provide the best possible education and support for every child.
The leadership team has made significant efforts to cultivate a strong sense of community that encompasses pupils, parents, and staff. Parents express confidence in the school's commitment to helping their children succeed, which contributes to a positive atmosphere. Pupils take pride in their responsibilities as they advance through the school, feeling that their voices are heard and that they play an important role in the school's functioning. Leadership roles, such as the head gardeners in Year 6, allow pupils to engage actively in maintaining the school's environment.
Pupils exhibit politeness and friendliness towards one another, and teachers establish clear behavioral expectations that students meet. Reports from pupils indicate that instances of bullying are rare, and they feel supported by teachers in resolving any issues that arise. The school has a strong focus on academic achievement, particularly in English and mathematics, where the curriculum is well-structured and sequenced. Teachers utilize their subject knowledge effectively to clarify concepts and address any misunderstandings, leading to positive outcomes in these subjects.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with a systematic approach to teaching phonics that helps pupils acquire new sounds. The majority of pupils develop a love for reading, encouraged by teachers who share engaging books. The school provides a rich library for pupils to explore and select books, fostering a culture of reading. However, while most pupils progress well, some struggling readers do not receive the necessary support quickly enough, indicating a need for enhanced training for staff in this area.
The curriculum at Ash Grange is broad and engaging, with adaptations made to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The introduction of learning certificates has helped clarify the essential knowledge pupils should retain each year, aiding in their learning journey. Nevertheless, there are instances where teachers do not sufficiently connect current lessons with prior knowledge, which can hinder some pupils' ability to build on their understanding effectively.
In the early years, children in the preschool, nursery, and reception classes receive a strong foundation, with a curriculum designed to enhance their speech and language skills. The classrooms are inviting and well-organized, promoting collaborative play and learning. Pupils in these early years achieve commendably.
The school offers a variety of engaging learning opportunities, with lessons designed to capture pupils' interest. For instance, Year 5 pupils participated enthusiastically in a science lesson focused on material separation. However, attendance remains a concern, as many pupils miss out on these enriching experiences. The leadership team is aware of this issue and is actively working to improve attendance rates.
Personal development is a key focus at Ash Grange, with pupils gaining a solid understanding of equality and respect for diversity. Each class is linked to a charity, allowing pupils to engage in fundraising activities that promote awareness of local and global issues. During the inspection, pupils expressed excitement about their plans to create and sell chocolate to support their chosen charities.
The school's safeguarding measures are effective, with well-trained staff who respond promptly to any concerns. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety and awareness of local risks.
To enhance its performance, the school must continue to strengthen reading instruction and ensure that all staff are equipped to support struggling readers effectively. Additionally, while recent improvements to the curriculum are promising, it is essential for teachers to reinforce connections between new and previously taught material to solidify pupils' understanding. Attendance rates need to improve further, as persistent absence remains a challenge. Overall, Ash Grange Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
