Kingslea Primary School, located in Horsham, West Sussex, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on May 4 and 5, 2022. The school was rated as good overall, with outstanding marks in behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The quality of education was also deemed good, while early years provision received a similar rating. The school has maintained its previous inspection grade of good since its last evaluation in March 2017.
Pupils express great pride in their school, sharing enthusiastic stories about their learning experiences and the various clubs they participate in. They appreciate the support provided by the school, with one pupil noting the desire to give back due to the school's efforts. The eco-group and litter-picking club are particularly highlighted as initiatives that contribute to the school's positive environment. Cultural diversity is celebrated, with pupils teaching each other about different traditions, such as Hindu rangoli art and the significance of Eid. The school fosters a sense of community, where pupils and staff engage in activities like dancing together during playtime.
Safety is a priority at Kingslea, with pupils feeling secure and reporting that bullying is rare. The school promotes high expectations and positive relationships, creating an ethos of kindness. This supportive environment allows pupils to trust adults in the school, knowing they will receive help when needed. Classrooms are vibrant spaces for learning, and pupils take pride in showcasing their work to visitors.
The leadership at Kingslea Primary School is highly regarded by both staff and parents. Leaders are committed to the welfare of their staff and have a clear vision for the school, encapsulated in the Kingslea Charter. This charter emphasizes the importance of providing every pupil with the support needed to reach their potential through a diverse range of enriching experiences. The curriculum is continuously reviewed to ensure that learning is well-structured from Reception to Year 6, with leaders aware of areas that require further development.
Teachers are dedicated to planning engaging learning activities that challenge pupils' thinking. The school has a strong focus on reading, with all pupils learning to read from the start of their education. Reception children quickly grasp the shapes and sounds of letters, enabling them to read whole words. Daily reading sessions with adults are a staple, ensuring that pupils receive the support they need to catch up if they fall behind.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive excellent support, with leaders actively seeking external assistance to remove barriers to learning. Adaptations in physical education ensure that all pupils can participate fully. The school regularly reviews the support provided to SEND pupils, ensuring timely and appropriate help.
Behavior in lessons is calm and focused, with high expectations for kindness and respect. Pupils are encouraged to learn from their mistakes, fostering a growth mindset. Personal development is a key strength, with pupils actively participating in their community and learning about safety, both online and offline. The school offers a variety of trips to enhance learning experiences.
The safeguarding arrangements at Kingslea are effective, with clear processes in place to identify and support pupils at risk. Staff receive regular training and are attuned to the needs of their pupils. The personal, social, and health education curriculum is responsive to current issues, particularly focusing on mental health in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. Some staff supporting reading may require further training to ensure consistent delivery of the phonics program. Additionally, leaders need to clarify expectations for what pupils should know by the end of each phase to enhance the overall curriculum coherence.
