Orchard Primary School, located on Oxford Road in Sidcup, Kent, underwent an inspection on March 8 and 9, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils at Orchard Primary School enjoy attending and feel safe within the school environment. They have established positive relationships with their peers and staff, fostering a culture of mutual respect. The school promotes a strong anti-bullying ethos, with incidents of bullying reported as extremely rare. Expectations for behavior are consistently high, and pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning, actively participating in lessons and working diligently both independently and in groups.
The staff at Orchard Primary School are dedicated to the success of all pupils, creating an inspiring climate that encourages high aspirations. Leaders ensure that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, have access to a broad and ambitious curriculum. The school features a large outdoor area, providing pupils with various activities during playtimes, and emphasizes the importance of physical fitness and healthy relationships.
Pupils benefit from engaging workshops and trips, such as a Year 6 residential visit to Sussex and a first-aid workshop where they learned vital life-saving skills. The school has prioritized the teaching of reading, writing, and mathematics, implementing a new phonics program that has been effectively delivered from Nursery through Year 2. Staff have received training to ensure consistency in teaching, and resources have been adapted to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with SEND. Regular assessments help identify gaps in pupils' reading, allowing for timely interventions to support those who may be falling behind.
Mathematics is a particular strength at Orchard Primary School, with a well-sequenced and ambitious curriculum. Staff have received extensive training, enhancing their subject knowledge and confidence. Teachers provide clear feedback, enabling pupils to progress effectively. The science curriculum is also well-planned, fostering enthusiasm among pupils as they discuss their learning experiences.
While subjects like history and geography have been carefully designed, leaders recognize the need for further development in these areas. Art and design technology programs are still in earlier stages, and leaders are aware of the need to enhance pupils' experiences in these subjects. The impact of COVID-19 has affected the pace of curriculum development, but leaders are committed to addressing these gaps.
Pupils at Orchard Primary School are polite and courteous, celebrating diversity within their community. Parents appreciate the positive atmosphere and the regular communication from the school. Staff and governors take pride in their school, sharing high aspirations for their pupils and supporting each other's well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at Orchard Primary School are effective, with a strong culture of safety established by leaders and governors. Staff receive regular training and are clear about their responsibilities. Pupils feel safe and are educated on online safety. Leaders engage with outside agencies to provide necessary support for families and ensure rigorous safeguarding procedures are followed.
To continue improving, leaders must focus on identifying and addressing gaps in the curriculum across all subjects, providing subject-specific training for teachers to enhance their understanding. This will ensure that pupils can confidently know and remember more in their learning experiences.
