Valley Invicta Primary School at Leybourne Chase has been recognized for its nurturing and inclusive environment where pupils thrive academically and personally. The recent inspection conducted on 21 and 22 February 2024 confirmed that the school maintains its overall judgment of good, with evidence suggesting that it could achieve an outstanding rating in a graded inspection. The school is led by Executive Headteacher Jeanette Brumby and is part of the Valley Invicta Academies Trust, which includes a board of trustees and a head of school, Gemma Robinson.
Pupils at the school, including those who are disadvantaged and those with special educational needs and disabilities, are encouraged to reach their full potential. High expectations are set, and pupils respond positively, demonstrating exemplary behavior and a strong attitude towards learning. The atmosphere within the school is calm and purposeful, with students expressing enjoyment in their educational experiences. The school ensures that all pupils, including those with SEND, are fully integrated into school life, which is appreciated by parents and carers.
The curriculum at Valley Invicta Primary School is well-designed and ambitious, fostering pupils' interests and imagination. The school effectively identifies the needs of its pupils, providing appropriate challenges and support. The early years provision is particularly strong, with organized activities that promote rapid development in essential skills such as reading, writing, and mathematics. Staff receive high-quality training, which enhances their confidence and subject knowledge, allowing them to adapt teaching methods to meet the diverse needs of their students.
Reading is prioritized across the school, with a consistent approach to teaching phonics that enables children to develop confidence and fluency. The school promotes a love of reading, with older pupils engaging with a variety of challenging texts that help them understand broader societal issues. The positive attitudes and behavior of pupils were evident during the inspection, where they displayed respect and politeness towards each other and adults.
Beyond academics, the school offers a rich array of extracurricular activities, including after-school clubs and community involvement opportunities. Pupils are encouraged to express their views and contribute to the school community, fostering a sense of belonging. The school is committed to improving attendance and provides support to families to achieve this goal. The personal skills and academic achievements of pupils prepare them well for their future endeavors.
Staff members feel valued and supported, contributing to a strong culture of teamwork and mutual respect. The leadership team shares a vision of making a positive impact on pupils' lives and is dedicated to continuous improvement. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring that pupils feel safe and well cared for.
This inspection marks the first ungraded evaluation since the school was last judged to be good in September 2018. The school does not currently utilize alternative provisions and has a specialist resourced provision for pupils with SEND, specifically those with autism. The executive headteacher and head of school are both new to their roles, bringing fresh perspectives to the school’s leadership. Overall, Valley Invicta Primary School at Leybourne Chase exemplifies a commitment to high standards in education, fostering an environment where all pupils can succeed.
