Valley Invicta Primary School at Aylesford has recently undergone an inspection, achieving an overall effectiveness rating of outstanding. The inspection took place on the 10th and 11th of May 2023, and the school has shown remarkable improvement since its previous inspection, which rated it as good. The school is characterized by a nurturing and inclusive environment where pupils thrive. The atmosphere is welcoming and purposeful, fostering a strong sense of community. Pupils express happiness and enjoyment in their learning experiences, and parents appreciate the strong leadership and excellent teaching that contribute to a positive school culture.
The school’s values, which include respect, resilience, responsibility, cooperation, and individuality, are deeply embedded in the school’s ethos and are consistently demonstrated by the pupils. Leaders maintain high expectations for both academic and personal development, reflected in a rich curriculum and exemplary pupil behavior. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils feel confident that staff will address any issues promptly. The school provides a safe environment where pupils build trusting relationships with staff, and children in Reception adapt quickly to school routines.
Pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles and contribute actively to the school community, taking pride in their achievements and those of their peers. The headteacher is committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs, receive the best possible learning experiences. This commitment has led to the development of an impressive and vibrant curriculum.
Teachers effectively build on pupils’ knowledge and skills, with leaders quickly identifying those with special educational needs. The curriculum is designed to ensure that all pupils have equal opportunities to learn alongside their peers. Staff provide tailored support and resources, enabling all pupils to succeed and achieve high standards. The Reception curriculum is well-structured, linking seamlessly to key stage one, and activities are organized to engage children fully.
Subject leaders are knowledgeable and dedicated, providing valuable guidance and training to teachers. The school has established a high-quality approach to teaching and learning, ensuring consistency across all subjects and year groups. Teachers assess pupils’ understanding effectively and adapt their teaching accordingly, ensuring that no pupil falls behind. Pupils develop strong reading skills through a well-implemented phonics scheme, with books matched to their reading levels to promote fluency.
The school also emphasizes personal development, fostering pupils’ well-being and character development. Pupils demonstrate respect and acceptance of diverse beliefs and backgrounds, and their positive attitudes contribute to high engagement levels in lessons. The headteacher has built a dedicated team of leaders and staff, promoting a culture of support and collaboration. Staff feel valued and proud to work at the school, benefiting from high-quality training and consideration for their workload.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding in place. Staff are well-trained to identify and address concerns, ensuring that pupils receive the necessary support. Pupils learn to keep themselves safe both online and in their local community, and parents feel reassured about their children's safety and well-being at school. Overall, Valley Invicta Primary School at Aylesford exemplifies excellence in education, providing a supportive and enriching environment for all its pupils.
