St Margaret’s C of E Primary School in Crawley, West Sussex, has undergone a recent inspection, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on May 4 and 5, 2022, and marked a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement. The school is characterized by a friendly and polite student body that takes pride in their school environment. Pupils express enjoyment in attending school, describing it as exciting, safe, and happy. They demonstrate good behavior and a willingness to collaborate with peers, with incidents of bullying being rare. The school has established effective channels for students to report concerns, such as a worry box in each classroom.
The school promotes inclusivity and equality, teaching pupils about diverse role models from various backgrounds, including notable female scientists. Extracurricular activities, such as karate, football, and basketball, are well-received, alongside educational trips that enhance learning experiences. The school environment is calm and welcoming, reflecting its Christian ethos of loving God, serving others, and fulfilling potential. The community aspect is strong, with families feeling integrated into the St Margaret’s family from the outset. Staff maintain high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, fostering a supportive atmosphere.
Leaders and governors have made notable strides in enhancing the quality of education since the last inspection. The curriculum is ambitious and designed to cater to all pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The foundation stage curriculum effectively builds pupils' knowledge over time, with recent improvements noted in English and mathematics. The school has adapted its curriculum to ensure full inclusion of pupils in the special support centre for those with SEND.
Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with a new phonics program implemented to support early reading development. Staff are well-trained and encourage a love of reading, providing tailored support for pupils who may struggle. The school library is a popular resource, and pupils enjoy sharing their reading experiences with teachers.
The personal, social, and health education curriculum promotes understanding of relationships and equality, fostering respect for diversity within the community. Pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as serving on the school council, which actively participates in fundraising for various causes. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with a peaceful classroom environment maintained through clear expectations set by staff.
Staff express pride in their work at St Margaret’s, feeling supported and valued within a strong team dynamic. The school has established effective safeguarding measures, ensuring a positive culture around pupil welfare. Staff receive regular training on safeguarding issues, and pupils feel safe and informed about online safety and healthy relationships.
Despite the overall positive evaluation, the school is encouraged to further refine its curriculum plans to ensure that all subjects clearly outline the specific knowledge pupils need to acquire. This will enhance the connections pupils make with prior learning and strengthen their overall progress. Additional training for staff in subject leadership is recommended to ensure consistent implementation of the planned curriculum across all subjects. The school continues to build on its successes while addressing areas for improvement to provide the best educational experience for its pupils.
