The Gateway Primary Academy, located in Dartford, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 28 and 29, 2022. The pupils at this school exhibit a strong enthusiasm for learning and take pride in their educational journey. They demonstrate resourcefulness and resilience, engaging with complex concepts such as mathematical probability through vibrant classroom displays. The school promotes a love for reading, encouraging students to explore a diverse selection of well-chosen books, which helps them envision themselves as characters within the stories. The presence of guest speakers from various professions, including scientists and engineers, further enriches the learning experience and motivates students to pursue knowledge.
Leadership at The Gateway Primary Academy is characterized by high expectations for all pupils, fostering an environment where students are encouraged to strive for their best. The established ‘golden rules’ provide clear guidelines for behavior, and pupils actively participate in reward systems, such as collecting headteacher stickers and ‘Value Stars’ during weekly assemblies. The relationships between pupils and staff are nurturing, creating a safe space where students feel comfortable making mistakes and learning from them. This supportive atmosphere contributes to positive behavior both in lessons and during playtime, with effective measures in place to address any concerns regarding bullying.
The school has developed a creative and ambitious curriculum that spans from early years to Year 6. Pupils engage in thoughtfully designed topics, such as the Year 4 ‘Living Islands’ project, which combines coastal geography with experiential learning through field trips. The emphasis on reading and writing is evident from the moment pupils enter the school, with a strong focus on phonics to aid their literacy development. Regular assessments ensure that all students receive the necessary support to keep pace with their peers.
Subject leaders are committed to ensuring that pupils acquire essential knowledge in their respective subjects. They continuously evaluate the curriculum and make adjustments to enhance learning opportunities. However, subjects like physical education and design technology are still being refined, and additional support is needed for teachers to accurately assess pupil progress in these areas.
The school is proactive in identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff receive ongoing training to effectively address barriers to learning, ensuring that all pupils can thrive. Adaptations are carefully planned to promote independence and confidence among students with SEND.
Cultural awareness is fostered within the school community, with pupils encouraged to share their family traditions and learn about diverse backgrounds. This promotes respect and understanding among students, who are taught the importance of being good citizens. Staff actively praise pupils for their kindness and cooperation, reinforcing positive social interactions.
The school environment is characterized by positive relationships between staff and pupils, with teachers attuned to the interests of their students. Initiatives such as a bird box project enhance the curriculum and deepen pupils’ understanding of life cycles. Leaders prioritize staff well-being, ensuring that workloads are manageable and that support is readily available.
The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff. Regular training equips them to recognize potential risks to pupils, and concerns are addressed promptly. The school also emphasizes personal and online safety, providing pupils with valuable insights into community safety through interactions with local services.
While the school has made significant strides, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that the curriculum is fully sequenced across all subjects. Leaders are actively working to enhance the educational experience for all pupils, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement. The Gateway Primary Academy remains a good school, with a clear vision for future development.
