Brompton-Westbrook Primary School, located in Gillingham, Kent, is recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on June 11 and 12, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Sue Mason, the school is part of The Westbrook Trust, which provides additional governance and support. The trust is led by CEO Oliver Allen and overseen by a board of trustees chaired by John Norley.
The school fosters a friendly and inclusive environment where pupils thrive. Staff are attentive to the diverse backgrounds of students, including those with parents in the armed forces, and they provide tailored support to help all pupils integrate smoothly into school life. The school emphasizes a strong sense of community and belonging, allowing students to feel confident in expressing themselves within a nurturing atmosphere. Pupils take pride in their school, feeling safe and eager to learn, which is reflected in their positive behavior and contributions to the school environment. The school's 'Zero Hero' behavior policy promotes a calm and respectful atmosphere, with pupils appreciating recognition through celebration assemblies and various rewards.
Brompton-Westbrook offers a wide range of high-quality enrichment activities that contribute to character development. Leadership roles such as wellbeing ambassadors and members of the school council empower pupils to express their thoughts and opinions confidently. The curriculum is ambitious and designed to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers deliver engaging lessons, supported by strong subject knowledge and effective training. Recent improvements in mathematics have enhanced pupils' reasoning and problem-solving skills, while early years students are well-prepared for their transition to Year 1.
Reading is a central focus of the school's educational approach, with a strong emphasis on communication and language development in the early years. Children are immersed in rhymes, songs, and stories, which helps them build vocabulary and phonetic skills. Reading ambassadors play a vital role in promoting a love for reading among their peers, and well-trained staff provide targeted support for those who struggle with reading, ensuring that most pupils can read fluently for their age.
Pupils demonstrate positive behavior, contributing to a calm and purposeful learning environment. Attendance rates are high, and the school works closely with families to address any barriers to regular attendance. The school has thoughtfully considered how to enhance pupils' personal development through a variety of experiences, including visits and guest speakers, fostering an appreciation for individual uniqueness and building warm relationships among students.
The safeguarding arrangements at Brompton-Westbrook are effective, ensuring that pupils' welfare is prioritized. While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement, particularly in the consistency of knowledge checks across subjects. Teachers are encouraged to ensure that pupils' understanding is assessed before introducing new concepts, allowing for tailored lesson activities that maximize student achievement. Overall, Brompton-Westbrook Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils, preparing them well for their future educational journeys.
