Purleigh Community Primary School, located in Chelmsford, Essex, was inspected on May 1 and 2, 2024. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas such as behaviour and attitudes receiving an outstanding rating. The quality of education, personal development, leadership, and management, as well as early years provision, were all rated good. This inspection marked the first graded evaluation under the current framework since the school had not been inspected in the last twelve years due to legal exemptions.
The headteacher, Neil Stotter, leads the school, which is part of The Eveleigh LINK Academy Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Joseph Figg and a board of trustees chaired by Sara Kightley. The school has a strong community ethos, where pupils feel valued and supported. Each student has a buddy, fostering a sense of belonging and care among peers. In Reception, children quickly learn the school’s values and demonstrate kindness and support for one another. Older pupils take on responsibilities as role models, helping to maintain high standards of conduct throughout the school.
Pupils show a strong commitment to their learning, with a focus on becoming young scholars. They engage actively in lessons and enjoy exploring various subjects. The school offers a well-designed curriculum that allows pupils to build their knowledge progressively. Teachers are well-equipped to meet the diverse learning needs of their students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. They provide immediate support when pupils encounter difficulties, ensuring that no one falls behind.
The school has recently revamped its approach to teaching reading, which has positively impacted pupils' enjoyment and achievement in this area. The phonics scheme is consistently implemented from Reception, enabling pupils to develop fluency in reading. The reading curriculum is thoughtfully designed to help students access and understand complex texts, with additional support for those who struggle.
In the early years, children are provided with effective opportunities to learn through play, preparing them well for the expectations of key stage one. The school has a thorough approach to identifying the needs of pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they receive appropriate support to thrive academically.
Behaviour at the school is exemplary, with pupils demonstrating maturity and respect during lessons and social interactions. The school’s ethos and behaviour management strategies contribute to a positive learning environment. Attendance is generally high, and the school works closely with families to support those who may struggle with regular attendance.
Pupils receive comprehensive support for their personal development, learning about diverse lifestyles and beliefs, which prepares them for adult life. Parents and staff express confidence in the school’s leadership, with many feeling proud of its heritage and commitment to the local community. The trustees and governors effectively carry out their responsibilities, holding leaders accountable for the quality of education provided.
While the school excels in many areas, there is a need for improvement in ensuring that knowledge is consistently reviewed across all subjects. This will help pupils retain key information and build on their learning effectively. Overall, Purleigh Community Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils are well-prepared for their future educational journeys.
