St Matthew’s CofE Primary School in Yiewsley, West Drayton, underwent an inspection on July 6 and 7, 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 St Matthew’s are described as welcoming, polite, and respectful. They quickly adapt to the school environment, making friends and feeling safe. The staff are attentive to pupils' needs, addressing any distractions or incidents of bullying promptly. The school fosters a positive atmosphere where pupils are encouraged to express their feelings and seek help when needed. The leadership team has high expectations for pupil achievement, and this is reflected in the nurturing of a love for reading from an early age. Regular reading activities and story times are integral to the curriculum, promoting engagement and perseverance among students.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including after-school clubs and special events that enhance learning experiences. Pupils participate in multisports, chess club, and educational outings, which contribute to their overall development and enjoyment of school life. The curriculum is designed thoughtfully, with subject leaders focusing on essential content that pupils are expected to learn. Training for staff has improved their understanding of how learning progresses across subjects, allowing them to effectively support pupils in recalling and applying prior knowledge.
While the curriculum is well-embedded in subjects like mathematics and early reading, some areas require further development, particularly in assessment strategies. In certain subjects, the assessment methods do not align closely with the curriculum content, making it challenging for teachers to identify gaps in pupils' learning. Subject leaders are actively working to refine these systems to ensure all pupils receive the necessary support to catch up.
The school places a strong emphasis on reading, ensuring that staff are well-trained to deliver the reading program effectively. Teachers model high expectations for pronunciation and blending sounds, helping pupils become fluent readers. Opportunities for improving reading skills are integrated across various subjects, enhancing vocabulary and comprehension.
St Matthew’s is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities have equal access to opportunities and support. The school environment is characterized by attentive and responsive pupils who engage actively in discussions, contributing to a lively classroom atmosphere.
The personal, health, and social education program, along with assemblies and guest speakers, equips pupils with knowledge about safety and well-being. The school has implemented a consent curriculum as part of its relationships and sex education, starting from the early years, to help children understand important concepts related to safety and personal boundaries.
Leaders are focused on restoring opportunities for educational visits and outings following the COVID-19 pandemic. They have also adapted procedures to support staff well-being and manage workload effectively. The collaboration between trustees and governors enhances the school's operations, fostering communication with parents and carers.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Matthew’s are effective, with a well-qualified team overseeing pupil safety. Staff are trained to recognize signs of distress and know how to report concerns. Leaders are aware of local risks and work closely with external agencies to provide necessary support for families.
Overall, St Matthew’s CofE Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education and a supportive environment for all its pupils, with ongoing efforts to improve and adapt to their needs.
