The John Wesley Church of England Methodist Voluntary Aided Primary School in Singleton, Ashford, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 10 and 11, 2021. The school is characterized by a caring and nurturing environment where pupils thrive and feel secure. The well-being of students is prioritized, and strong relationships foster a sense of trust between pupils and staff. Students express their happiness in attending school, appreciating the engaging and supportive teaching methods employed by their educators. They feel encouraged to work hard and are aware of the expectations set for them.
Pupils exhibit positive behavior, treating each other and staff with respect. The school has effective measures in place to address bullying, with students feeling safe and confident in reporting any concerns. The specially resourced provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities allows these students to participate fully in school life, learning alongside their peers while receiving tailored support.
The school offers a broad and ambitious curriculum that is well-planned and sequenced, ensuring that teachers are clear about what to teach and when. This curriculum is designed to help pupils acquire the necessary knowledge and skills at each stage of their education. Staff are adept at identifying the needs of pupils with special educational needs and provide high-quality support to ensure they can access the same curriculum as their classmates.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted the implementation of the curriculum, the school is committed to evaluating its effectiveness over time. Leaders are enhancing their skills to monitor the curriculum's delivery and assess its impact on pupil learning. The staff team is reflective and engaged in professional development, ensuring they are equipped to provide the best educational experiences for their students.
Pupils demonstrate friendliness and politeness, embodying the school's Christian values through their conduct and attitudes. They respect differing opinions and work collaboratively, contributing to a positive school culture. Leaders recognize the potential for improved use of outdoor spaces in early years education to further enhance children's learning experiences through play and exploration.
Language and vocabulary development are emphasized throughout the school, starting in the Reception Year, where children develop a love for stories and rhymes. The phonics teaching is well-structured, enabling pupils to read books that align with their learning. Regular assessments help identify pupils who may need additional support, ensuring they can catch up and develop a love for reading.
Mathematical skills are nurtured through engaging activities that deepen understanding. The headteacher and deputy are dedicated to providing the best experiences for pupils and their families, focusing on both personal attributes and academic achievements to prepare students for future success.
The school's safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safety. Staff are well-trained to identify and address concerns, ensuring that pupils receive the necessary support. The school has established rigorous risk assessments to maintain a safe environment for all students.
While the school achieves well overall, there is a need for senior leaders to evaluate the curriculum's effectiveness more thoroughly to ensure it meets the needs of all pupils. Leaders should focus on securing consistency in curriculum implementation and assessing the impact of their initiatives to enhance pupil learning outcomes.
