Goat Lees Primary School, located in Ashford, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 21-22, 2020. The school offers a diverse range of activities that pupils enjoy, particularly the outdoor equipment. Students feel well-supported by the staff, who are committed to ensuring that all pupils achieve their potential. The school prepares pupils effectively for the next stages of their education, and students take pride in their responsibilities, such as the reading ambassadors who assist their peers in selecting books in the library.
Pupils express a strong sense of safety within the school environment, attributing this to the care provided by teachers and other adults. They feel comfortable approaching trusted adults with any concerns, knowing they will receive help. The behavior of pupils is commendable; they are polite and welcoming to visitors, demonstrating the school’s values of respect, responsibility, pride, and honesty. These values are evident in their interactions, as they show care for one another and resolve conflicts amicably.
The school excels in promoting a love for reading, with leaders prioritizing this area. The phonics teaching is well-structured and effective, starting in the early years. Teachers quickly identify pupils who may struggle and provide the necessary support to help them catch up. Most pupils read books that match their reading levels, and daily reading lessons are well-supported by adults. However, there are instances where independent tasks assigned to pupils are too challenging or do not effectively build their reading skills, leading to a loss of interest.
In mathematics, leaders have taken a thoughtful approach to improve teaching methods, addressing previous shortcomings in pupil progress. Teachers receive clear guidance and training, enabling them to plan structured lessons that cater to all pupils' needs. The consistent approach to teaching mathematics across the school has resulted in engaging lessons that pupils enjoy. Most students confidently apply their knowledge to solve problems, as demonstrated by Year 6 pupils working with decimals and fractions.
Personal development is a key focus for the school, with activities designed to enhance pupils' confidence and self-esteem while fostering respect for diverse cultures. Educational trips, such as visits to stately homes, enrich the learning experience. Leaders ensure that pupils build on prior knowledge, allowing them to retain information across various subjects. For instance, pupils in Years 3 and 4 articulated how their sketching skills improved during art lessons. Nonetheless, there is recognition that further improvement is needed in planning for certain subjects, particularly music.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate assistance and access to the same curriculum as their peers. In the early years, children benefit from strong relationships with staff and engaging activities that promote their development. Regular assessments help staff monitor progress and provide support as needed.
Parents and carers generally express positive views about the school, particularly regarding the support provided to pupils with special educational needs and families facing challenges. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to identify and report concerns promptly. Good relationships among staff, pupils, and the community facilitate a collaborative approach to safeguarding.
While the school provides a rich learning experience across various subjects, there is a need for better planning and sequencing in some areas, especially music. Additionally, independent reading tasks require improvement to ensure they meet pupils' needs effectively. Overall, Goat Lees Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational environment for all its pupils.
