Kedington Primary Academy, located in Haverhill, Suffolk, has been inspected and continues to be rated as a good school. The recent ungraded inspection, conducted on July 9 and 10, 2024, suggests that the school may achieve an outstanding rating if a graded inspection were to take place. The executive headteacher, Vicky Doherty, leads the school, which is part of the Unity Schools Partnership multi-academy trust, overseen by CEO Tim Coulson and a board of trustees chaired by Christine Quinn.
Pupils at Kedington Primary Academy exhibit a strong enthusiasm for learning, creating vibrant and engaging classrooms. They enjoy their time at school, balancing fun and laughter with a commitment to their studies. The school fosters a culture of respect, where pupils' behavior is exemplary, and adults are attentive to their emotional well-being. The school celebrates the individuality of each pupil, promoting a harmonious environment that respects and values differences.
The school offers numerous opportunities for pupils to expand their horizons through initiatives like the Kedington 50, which includes overseas trips, theatre visits, and various sporting activities. Pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles, such as running lunchtime clubs, which helps them thrive and develop a sense of responsibility. The curriculum is designed to ensure that pupils learn exceptionally well, with teachers demonstrating strong subject knowledge and effective teaching strategies. Regular assessments help reinforce prior learning, enabling pupils to tackle complex subjects with confidence.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive tailored support, ensuring they achieve their potential alongside their peers. The school excels in teaching reading, with a strong emphasis on phonics, enabling young pupils to build a solid foundation in literacy. As they progress, pupils engage with increasingly complex texts, enriching their vocabulary and understanding of language.
Lessons at Kedington Primary Academy are engaging and thought-provoking, fostering a positive attitude towards learning. Disruptions are rare, allowing for effective teaching and learning. The early years provision is nurturing, with skilled adults providing structured activities that promote independence and resilience among young children. The school places significant importance on pupils' wider development, offering planned opportunities for them to engage with the world around them. Pupils actively participate in the democratic process through the school council, valuing their role in shaping school life.
Attendance is closely monitored, with most pupils attending regularly. The school implements effective strategies to support those facing attendance challenges, demonstrating a commitment to ensuring all pupils are present and engaged. Staff well-being is prioritized, with attention given to workload and professional development opportunities, ensuring that teachers remain effective in their roles.
The safeguarding arrangements at Kedington Primary Academy are effective, creating a safe environment for all pupils. The school has undergone its first ungraded inspection since being rated good in March 2019, and the inspector considered the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the school’s operations. The inspection involved discussions with various stakeholders, including the executive headteacher, staff, and members of the governing body, as well as deep dives into specific subjects to evaluate the curriculum's effectiveness.
Overall, Kedington Primary Academy demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education, fostering a positive learning environment, and supporting the holistic development of its pupils. The school is well-positioned for future success, with the potential to achieve an outstanding rating in its next inspection.
