The Haven Voluntary Aided CofE Methodist Primary School in Eastbourne has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, receiving a Good rating in various areas including leadership and management, teaching quality, personal development, behavior, welfare, and pupil outcomes. The school has demonstrated strong leadership from senior leaders and governors, who work collaboratively to uphold the school's values and ensure a safe and supportive environment for pupils. Parents express high levels of satisfaction, noting that their children feel safe and happy at school.
The headteacher and deputy headteachers provide effective leadership, fostering a culture of high expectations and commitment to pupil welfare. Staff, including newly qualified teachers, report receiving excellent support, contributing to a positive working environment. The school has made significant progress in improving pupil attainment, particularly in key stages one and two, where results have surpassed national averages in all subjects. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that the quality of teaching is consistently high across all classes.
In the early years, children make good progress due to effective leadership and quality provision. The school has established strong links with a local nursery, facilitating a smooth transition for children entering Reception. While the majority of pupils achieve well, there is a need to focus on the progress of disadvantaged children, as their outcomes have not always matched those of their peers.
The school has implemented new approaches to mathematics teaching, which are beginning to yield positive results. However, there are concerns regarding the development of reasoning skills in some classes, and the school is working to address this. Attendance rates have improved and are now in line with national averages, although the number of pupils who are persistently absent remains a concern.
To further enhance its effectiveness, the school aims to develop the skills of middle leaders in utilizing assessment information to inform their planning and improve standards. Additionally, there is a focus on ensuring that teaching consistently impacts pupils' learning and achievement, particularly in developing reasoning skills in mathematics and deepening learning for all pupils.
The school promotes pupils' personal development and welfare effectively, creating a happy and inclusive environment. Pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning and are taught how to keep themselves safe, both in school and online. The school emphasizes physical and emotional well-being, providing support through various interventions and a nurture room for pupils who may need additional help.
Behavior in the school is generally good, with pupils conducting themselves well and interacting positively with one another. However, there are instances of low-level disruption in some lessons, which can affect the learning environment. The school closely monitors attendance and celebrates improvements, but persistent absenteeism remains an area for ongoing attention.
Overall, The Haven Primary School is a good school that is committed to continuous improvement. It has established a strong foundation for pupil success and well-being, while also recognizing the need for further development in specific areas to ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential. The school community, including parents and staff, is engaged and supportive, contributing to a positive educational experience for all pupils.
