St Mary’s Church of England Primary School in Pulborough, West Sussex, underwent an inspection on 21 and 22 September 2022, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant progress since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The inspection highlighted the school’s commitment to celebrating diversity and ensuring that every pupil feels valued and part of the school community. Leaders and governors are dedicated to fostering an environment where pupils can achieve their best and enjoy their education. This ambition is reflected in the positive attitudes of the pupils, who are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
Pupils exhibit exemplary behavior and adhere to the school rules, understanding their importance and building respectful relationships. They feel safe and cared for, trusting staff to address any incidents of bullying or unkind behavior. The school environment, which includes a swimming pool and engaging outdoor activities, contributes to pupils' pride in their school. They particularly enjoy forest school sessions and various playtime activities, such as table tennis and a reading shack.
The school’s curriculum is designed with clear aims, allowing pupils to learn essential content across subjects while making connections between them. Leaders are actively refining the curriculum, although some areas still require development to ensure that learning builds effectively from early years through to later stages. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and utilize effective assessment strategies to support pupils' learning, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities. The special educational needs coordinator ensures that tailored support is available, helping these pupils to thrive.
Reading is a strong focus at St Mary’s, with well-trained staff supporting phonics learning from the start of Reception. Pupils develop reading fluency and enjoy exploring the school library, where they are encouraged to discover new authors. The school promotes its values, which emphasize qualities that foster good friendships and respect for diversity. Pupils engage in discussions about moral and humanitarian issues, demonstrating empathy and kindness.
Beyond the classroom, pupils participate in rich extracurricular opportunities, including forest school activities that enhance their understanding of environmental issues. The eco-council plays a vital role in monitoring energy use, instilling a sense of responsibility in pupils. While there are numerous after-school clubs available, the school recognizes the need to monitor participation levels to understand better why some pupils may not attend.
Governors are actively involved in the school’s development, working closely with leaders to identify strengths and areas for improvement. They prioritize staff well-being and workload, fostering a shared sense of pride in the school’s achievements and its role within the local community. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders ensuring that staff are well-trained to identify and report concerns. Pupils are educated about safety, including online risks and the importance of consent in healthy relationships.
To further improve, the school must continue developing its curriculum to ensure that all pupils learn effectively and that the needs of those with special educational needs are met. Leaders should also focus on providing subject leaders with the necessary training to enhance their expertise in curriculum design. Overall, St Mary’s Church of England Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience for all its pupils.
