More Park Catholic Primary School, located in West Malling, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 22 and 23, 2023. The school is appreciated by both pupils and parents for its caring environment and strong sense of community. Students express happiness in their school life, feeling valued as part of the More Park team. They are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as becoming anti-bullying or language ambassadors, fostering a sense of independence from an early age. The school promotes high expectations for both academic work and behavior, which pupils strive to meet. This commitment to excellence is evident in the orderly environment where students move safely and interact politely with one another.
Pupils feel secure at More Park, benefiting from additional support systems like the ‘listening ear’ for those in need. The school has established strong relationships among students and staff, contributing to a low incidence of bullying, which is addressed promptly when it occurs. Leadership at the school, including the local governing body, demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the institution's needs and works collaboratively with the multi-academy trust to advance the school's objectives. Staff members feel supported by leaders who listen to their concerns and make adjustments to alleviate workload pressures.
The school has made significant strides in supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Their needs are quickly identified, and tailored support is provided to ensure success across all areas of school life. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing teachers to deliver lessons effectively, particularly in English and mathematics. Pupils exhibit confidence and competence in mathematics, demonstrating their ability to solve complex problems and apply various methods. However, while the wider curriculum has been refined, there are areas where pupils do not achieve the same depth of understanding as they do in core subjects. For instance, in geography, students can discuss specific countries but struggle to connect this knowledge to broader concepts.
Reading is prioritized from the start of Reception, with effective phonics instruction that encourages children to apply their skills. Reading materials are carefully matched to pupils' abilities, fostering a love for reading and ensuring that all students, including those with SEND, are engaged and informed readers. The positive behavior of pupils reflects their eagerness to learn, supported by a behavior policy that aligns with the school’s values.
The school also emphasizes the importance of pupils' wider development, teaching them about various beliefs and promoting inclusivity. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to identify at-risk pupils and maintain a vigilant environment. The school has established clear policies to support pupils' understanding of safety, including online safety.
To enhance its educational offerings, the school is encouraged to continue refining the curriculum in foundation subjects to ensure that pupils can build knowledge systematically and make connections to prior learning. This will help deepen their understanding across all subjects, ensuring a well-rounded education. Overall, More Park Catholic Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective learning environment, with a strong commitment to the development and well-being of its pupils.
