Giffards Primary School, located in Corringham, Essex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 29 and 30, 2022. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, where pupils exemplify the values of care and respect. They foster positive relationships with staff and demonstrate a keen desire to excel in their studies. The curriculum is engaging and well-structured, allowing teachers to deliver lessons effectively. This has resulted in pupils being enthusiastic about their learning and eager to participate in quizzes and discussions.
The school has successfully implemented effective remote learning strategies, which have enabled many pupils to maintain their educational progress during challenging times. Parents have expressed satisfaction with this aspect of the school's approach. Additionally, pupils who require extra support benefit from after-school tuition, which they find enjoyable and helpful. The variety of extracurricular clubs available is another highlight, with pupils particularly excited about participating in inter-school competitions using the school’s minibus.
While pupils are aware of bullying, they report that it is infrequent and that they feel comfortable approaching any staff member for assistance if issues arise. This contributes to a general sense of happiness and safety within the school environment. The leadership team at Giffards Primary School is committed to continuous improvement, utilizing accurate evaluations to inform curriculum development. The curriculum is carefully designed to outline the learning journey for pupils across all subjects, ensuring that activities are appropriate and engaging.
The phonics program is particularly effective, with staff receiving comprehensive training to support its implementation. This structured approach helps pupils develop reading fluency, and those needing additional help are quickly identified and supported. Assessment practices across the curriculum are well thought out, allowing teachers to gauge pupil knowledge effectively. However, there is room for improvement in how staff assess pupils during lessons, as some may not promptly address misunderstandings.
The school provides strong support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, with leaders ensuring that systems are in place for identification and assistance. Teachers set achievable targets for these pupils, which helps track their progress. The school environment promotes good behavior, with pupils demonstrating resilience and a willingness to engage in tasks. Positive relationships among pupils contribute to a supportive atmosphere during lessons and social interactions.
Giffards Primary School also emphasizes the personal development of its pupils, offering numerous opportunities for community engagement and extracurricular activities. This includes participation in events such as the Queen’s platinum jubilee celebration, which helps build confidence in public speaking and performance. The leadership team, including governors, provides strong support to staff, ensuring manageable workloads and fostering a positive working environment. This has resulted in low staff turnover, indicating a stable and committed workforce.
In conclusion, Giffards Primary School continues to thrive as a good educational institution. While it excels in many areas, there is a need for ongoing training and monitoring to enhance staff assessment practices in the classroom. The school’s commitment to safeguarding is evident, with effective measures in place to protect pupils and promote their well-being. Overall, Giffards Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils can flourish academically and personally.
