Chantry Community Academy, located in Gravesend, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 26 and 27, 2022. The school maintains high expectations for its pupils, who demonstrate a strong desire to learn and make significant progress across the curriculum. Pupils take pride in their school and actively contribute to creating a positive learning environment. The school’s core values, encapsulated in the acronym RECIPE—respect, excellence, cooperation, independence, perseverance, and enjoyment—are integral to its culture. These values are consistently reinforced in lessons, fostering a harmonious and well-disciplined atmosphere where bullying is rare and swiftly addressed.
The school is characterized by a warm and friendly environment, where pupils feel safe and supported. They enjoy their time during social activities, and the well-maintained facilities contribute to a positive school experience. Pupils have access to designated staff members for any concerns, and they trust the staff to listen and provide assistance.
Leadership at Chantry Community Academy is ambitious and effective, with strong support from governors and the multi-academy trust. Leaders have successfully improved behavior and cultivated a culture conducive to learning. They ensure that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, allowing them to thrive academically. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, particularly in English and mathematics, where pupils achieve commendable results. However, the implementation of the curriculum in foundation subjects requires further development, as there are instances where teachers do not follow the planned curriculum closely, hindering pupils' ability to build knowledge sequentially.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with a well-equipped library at its center. A dedicated teacher promotes a love for reading by recommending diverse books to pupils, who appreciate this support and engage in reading frequently. The foundation for reading is established early, with children in Nursery enjoying songs and stories, and phonics instruction beginning in Reception. Regular assessments ensure that any pupils struggling with reading are quickly identified and supported.
Mathematical skills are developed systematically throughout the school. Early years focus on building mathematical language through play, while older pupils demonstrate a solid grasp of mathematical concepts and problem-solving methods. Practical applications of mathematics, such as budgeting for school projects, help pupils recognize its relevance in everyday life.
Pupils take pride in their Skills for Life passports, which outline attributes and activities that foster positive character traits. They embrace diversity and demonstrate knowledge of various faiths and family structures, promoting an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome.
The school’s safeguarding measures are robust, with leaders prioritizing the safety and well-being of pupils. Staff receive regular training to identify safeguarding issues, and clear reporting procedures are in place. The curriculum includes lessons on personal safety, including online safety, and is regularly updated to address emerging concerns.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school must ensure that the well-designed curriculum is consistently implemented across all subjects. This will enable pupils to build their knowledge progressively and achieve their full potential. Overall, Chantry Community Academy continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils, preparing them well for their future endeavors.
