Holy Trinity C of E Primary School in Cuckfield has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on October 17 and 18, 2023. The school community embodies values such as perseverance, aspiration, respect, and teamwork, creating a safe and happy environment for pupils. Students feel supported by nurturing relationships with staff, who effectively address any incidents of bullying, ensuring that unkindness is not tolerated. Pupils are eager to meet the high expectations set by school leaders and enjoy discussing their learning experiences and the books they read. The school effectively utilizes its outdoor space to enhance learning, with activities like welly walks and forest school sessions broadening pupils' knowledge.
The school prioritizes inclusivity in its decision-making, ensuring that all pupils see themselves represented in the literature and experiences provided. Early years education is particularly strong, with knowledgeable staff supporting children in Reception through high-quality interactions and purposeful play. This foundation helps children develop essential skills in number, reading, and communication. The school also supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring their full participation in school life. While most staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, some inconsistencies exist, leading to missed opportunities for assessing pupils' understanding and addressing misconceptions.
The curriculum is thoughtfully designed, particularly in subjects like geography, where pupils gain a complex understanding of their local area by comparing it with other regions. The school has clearly identified the knowledge and vocabulary to be taught, and where teaching is strongest, staff maintain high expectations and maximize learning time. However, in some lessons, not all pupils are sufficiently challenged, which can lead to ineffective use of learning time.
Pupils engage confidently in personal, social, and health education, benefiting from a broad curriculum that covers important age-appropriate knowledge. The school actively invites external speakers to reinforce key messages, such as anti-racism initiatives. Behaviour expectations are high, and any incidents falling below these standards are addressed promptly. The school also prioritizes attendance and is actively working to address gaps for certain pupil groups.
The school has established positive relationships with the local community, and staff feel their well-being is considered. Recent changes to report writing and subject-specific training have been positively received, and staff feel their input is valued in decision-making processes. Leaders, along with governors, are aware of the school's strengths and areas for development, demonstrating a reflective approach to continuous improvement.
The safeguarding arrangements at Holy Trinity are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. However, the school must enhance support for struggling early readers to ensure they receive precise assistance to improve their reading skills. Additionally, there are opportunities to engage all pupils more effectively in lessons to maximize their learning potential. Overall, Holy Trinity C of E Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong commitment to inclusivity and community engagement, while also recognizing areas for further development to enhance the learning experience for all pupils.
