Weeley St Andrew’s Church of England Primary School, located in Clacton-On-Sea, Essex, underwent an inspection on 11 and 12 October 2022, resulting in 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 all received a good rating.
Pupils express happiness in attending the school, which emphasizes values such as love, trust, and wisdom. The welcoming environment created by staff and the presence of school dogs contribute positively to the pupils' learning and play experiences. Students demonstrate kindness and cooperation, helping each other with their work and sharing resources during playtime. The school fosters a culture of trust, where pupils feel comfortable discussing any concerns with staff, who are committed to addressing issues such as bullying promptly. This supportive atmosphere enhances pupils' sense of safety.
The curriculum is continually reviewed and updated, with a focus on improving pupils' spoken and written language skills. Leaders have implemented curriculum plans that clearly outline the vocabulary and concepts to be taught across subjects. Teachers are trained to effectively deliver this content, ensuring that pupils revisit and reinforce their learning. Assessment practices are in place to monitor pupils' progress, allowing teachers to identify and address knowledge gaps.
While the reading program is generally effective, there are areas for improvement. In key stage two, online reading assessments help match pupils with appropriate reading materials, fostering a love for reading. However, inconsistencies in the implementation of reading support mean that some pupils may take longer to achieve fluency. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that effective practices are consistently applied across all classes.
The school has made strides in supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, with staff providing tailored assistance to help these pupils engage with their learning. The behavior of pupils is generally positive, with an emphasis on independence and kindness. The personal, social, and health education curriculum is well-structured, equipping pupils with essential life skills.
Leaders, including governors, are proactive in addressing challenges and enhancing the school's curriculum. They seek external support to build confidence and expertise among staff. Parents have noted the improvements made in recent years and feel optimistic about the school's ongoing development.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff receiving appropriate training to identify and report potential concerns. Leaders maintain thorough records and collaborate with external agencies to support vulnerable families. Pupils are educated on online safety, empowering them to recognize and report inappropriate behavior.
Despite the overall positive assessment, the school has identified areas for further development. Some subjects require clearer identification of the knowledge and skills pupils should acquire, ensuring they are well-prepared for future educational stages. Additionally, some staff may benefit from further training to enhance their subject knowledge and lesson planning skills. The quality of reading catch-up support varies, and leaders should ensure that all staff are equipped to provide effective assistance to pupils struggling with reading.
In summary, Weeley St Andrew’s Church of England Primary School has made commendable progress, achieving a good rating across various aspects of its operation. The school is committed to continuous improvement, fostering a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils.
