Maltese Road Primary School in Chelmsford, Essex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 20 and 21, 2024. The headteacher, Faye White, leads the school, which is part of The Everleigh LINK Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Joseph Figg and a board of trustees chaired by Sara Kightley. The school fosters a welcoming environment where pupils quickly settle in and gain confidence, whether they join in the early years or later. The atmosphere is described as friendly and familial, with staff always available to listen to students' concerns.
Pupils take pride in their responsibilities, helping to maintain the school and support one another. They engage actively in their learning, often embracing challenges set by their teachers. While some tasks may be complex for a few, the majority of students demonstrate strong progress over time. Behaviour is commendable, with pupils adhering to high standards expected by their teachers. Clear routines are established, and pupils respond promptly to various signals from staff, which helps maintain order and focus.
Lessons are enjoyable, and break times are filled with energy and fun. Attendance is generally high, although a small number of pupils miss too much school, which can hinder their learning. The school leadership effectively balances high expectations with a nurturing approach, ensuring that both staff and pupils feel supported. Recent adjustments to the curriculum have been made to better meet the needs of students, particularly in response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the increasing number of pupils who speak English as an additional language.
Teachers introduce new concepts clearly and in manageable steps, checking for understanding and building on prior knowledge. A variety of resources are utilized to help students grasp complex ideas, and most pupils receive ample practice to reinforce their learning. However, there are instances where misconceptions are not addressed swiftly, which can affect some pupils' understanding. Despite this, the overall progress and achievement levels are commendable.
The school prioritizes the development of enthusiastic readers, with staff receiving training to teach reading effectively from the early years. Regular assessments help identify pupils who may be falling behind, allowing for timely interventions. The reading program is enriched through shared reading experiences and library initiatives, fostering a love for literature among students.
Behaviour in lessons and around the school is generally good, with teachers recognizing and praising positive conduct. Pupils support each other, creating a respectful environment where even the youngest feel confident to share their thoughts. The school promotes regular attendance, yet some pupils still miss significant amounts of school time.
Extracurricular activities, such as trips to Colchester Castle and house competitions, enhance the curriculum and contribute to the development of essential skills like teamwork and resilience. The school also engages with parents, inviting them to share their professional experiences, which helps students connect their learning to future opportunities.
The safeguarding arrangements at Maltese Road Primary School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all teachers consistently adapt lessons to meet the diverse needs of their students. Additionally, the school must continue its efforts to improve attendance rates among the small group of pupils who miss too much school, as this impacts their learning and overall well-being. The school remains committed to providing a high-quality education and nurturing environment for all its pupils.
