High Halstow Primary Academy, located in Rochester, Kent, underwent an inspection on June 20 and 21, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of outstanding. The school has demonstrated exceptional quality in various areas, including education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all rated as outstanding. This marks a significant improvement from its previous inspection grade of good.
Pupils at High Halstow Primary Academy exhibit high levels of motivation and engagement in their learning. The staff effectively teach learning behaviors and routines, ensuring that expectations are consistently communicated and understood across the school. Pupils are ambitious and strive to meet high standards, fostering a culture of respect and support. The school has a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying, and pupils feel confident that any incidents would be swiftly addressed by the leadership team.
The school’s leadership maintains high expectations for all pupils, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities. The ambitious curriculum engages students and creates a vibrant learning environment. Pupils express excitement about their learning experiences, which are enriched by a wide range of extracurricular activities and leadership opportunities. The digital curriculum is particularly effective, providing tailored support for all pupils, including those with SEND, enabling them to learn independently.
The curriculum is designed to set high expectations for every pupil, covering a comprehensive range of traditional subjects. Activities are meticulously planned to reinforce essential knowledge, starting from the early years. This approach ensures that pupils retain their learning exceptionally well. Strong relationships in the early years contribute to a supportive learning atmosphere, with staff trained to adapt the curriculum to meet the needs of every child.
Reading is prioritized, with a structured phonics program introduced from the start of Reception. The school has implemented a well-chosen reading program that aligns with pupils' phonics knowledge, fostering confidence in their reading abilities. Support for struggling readers is prompt and personalized, ensuring that all pupils can keep pace with their peers. A love of reading is evident throughout the school, with staff and pupils engaging enthusiastically in discussions about their favorite books.
The leadership team is committed to ensuring that every pupil achieves their highest potential. Staff possess extensive subject knowledge and a deep understanding of the curriculum, which they teach effectively. The inquiry-based approach to learning benefits all pupils, particularly those with SEND, allowing them to make strong connections between subjects. Teachers adapt and scaffold learning as needed, resulting in exceptional achievements for pupils with diverse needs.
Pupils demonstrate maturity and thoughtfulness in managing their behavior, supported by well-established routines and a calm school ethos. New pupils are welcomed warmly, and the school celebrates diversity, fostering an inclusive environment. Pupils are well-prepared for their next stages of learning, with numerous opportunities for leadership roles that empower them to contribute to school decisions.
The safeguarding arrangements at High Halstow Primary Academy are effective, with a culture of vigilance upheld by all staff. Leaders work proactively with external agencies to provide additional support for families, and pupils trust their teachers to keep them safe. The school has developed a comprehensive digital curriculum that effectively teaches pupils about online safety.
Overall, High Halstow Primary Academy exemplifies excellence in education, with a strong commitment to the well-being and development of its pupils. The leadership team’s ambition for every pupil, combined with a supportive and engaging learning environment, ensures that the school continues to thrive and meet the needs of its community.
