Midfield Primary School, located in St Paul’s Cray, Orpington, Kent, has been recognized as an outstanding institution following its inspection on March 6 and 7, 2024. The headteacher, Dan Osborn, leads the school, which is part of The Spring Partnership Trust, overseen by joint CEOs Corinne Sheehan and Gulcin Sesli, and a board of trustees chaired by John Cliff. The school is known for its strong community ties and commitment to nurturing both staff and pupils. It effectively collaborates with parents and carers to address the needs of its students, ensuring a supportive environment where everyone is treated with respect.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil achievement and behavior, particularly for disadvantaged students and those with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff members are dedicated to helping all pupils reach their full potential, and this commitment is reflected in the students' consistent academic success across various subjects. Pupils exhibit polite and courteous behavior, adhering to school rules and demonstrating a calm demeanor throughout the school environment. They engage positively during social interactions, showcasing their ability to play cooperatively and resolve conflicts with the support of trusted adults.
Midfield Primary School offers numerous leadership opportunities for older pupils, allowing them to take on roles such as playground monitors and members of the junior leadership team. The curriculum is ambitious, well-structured, and tailored to the school's context, with a focus on breaking down learning into manageable steps. Teachers are well-equipped to deliver lessons effectively, utilizing their subject expertise to engage students and foster a deep understanding of the material. Pupils are encouraged to make connections across different subjects, enhancing their overall comprehension and confidence in their learning.
Reading is a priority at Midfield, with a strong emphasis on developing communication and language skills from the early years. The school implements a robust phonics program, ensuring that children begin learning phonics in Reception. Staff members receive regular training to maintain high standards in teaching phonics, and reading materials are carefully matched to the sounds pupils are learning. This approach enables students to develop a love for reading, as they express enthusiasm for various books and authors.
The school is particularly attentive to the needs of disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND, working closely with parents and external agencies to provide targeted support. The curriculum is designed to be inclusive, allowing all students to access the same learning opportunities. Additionally, the school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities and educational visits, which contribute to pupils' personal development and understanding of healthy relationships.
Attendance is a key focus, with the school implementing effective strategies to minimize absences and ensure punctuality. Staff members feel supported and valued, with leaders prioritizing their well-being and work-life balance. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, creating a safe environment for all pupils.
This inspection marks the first ungraded evaluation since the school was deemed outstanding in November 2017. The inspector engaged with various stakeholders, including school leaders, staff, and pupils, to assess the quality of education and the impact of the pandemic on learning. Overall, Midfield Primary School continues to demonstrate excellence in its educational provision, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
