Charlton Church of England Primary School, located in Dover, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on November 21 and 22, 2023. Under the leadership of headteacher Sally-Anne Hanson, the school is part of The Diocese of Canterbury Academies Trust, which provides additional oversight and support. The trust is led by CEO Annie Wiles and a board of trustees chaired by Sue Butterworth.
The school fosters a warm and caring community where pupils take great pride in their environment. Strong relationships between students and staff contribute to a positive atmosphere, with pupils responding well to high expectations. Behavior is exemplary, and students treat one another with kindness. They feel safe and supported, knowing that any concerns will be addressed by the staff. Pupils are motivated and enthusiastic learners, eager to engage in discussions about their learning and tackle challenges with resilience. They demonstrate independence in problem-solving and respond thoughtfully to guidance from teachers.
Charlton Church of England Primary School holds the ‘school of sanctuary’ award, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and support for local refugee charities. Pupils actively participate in fundraising events that celebrate the diversity of their community and engage in meaningful discussions that promote maturity and sensitivity.
The school has made significant strides in its curriculum, which is ambitious and designed to meet the needs of its pupils. Recent adjustments have been made in response to lower progress outcomes in reading and mathematics at key stage two, ensuring that most pupils achieve well. However, some pupils may not yet have developed a deep understanding in certain wider curriculum subjects as recent changes are still being embedded.
In the Reception class, children thrive in a rich learning environment, engaging in well-designed activities that promote writing and role play. Teachers provide clear explanations, preparing children effectively for Year 1. The school is noted for its inclusive culture, with teachers accurately identifying the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Support is tailored to ensure these pupils can learn alongside their peers, and connections between previous and new learning are well established.
Reading is prioritized at the school, with well-trained staff teaching phonics from an early age. A diverse selection of stories and poems is used to foster a love of reading, and pupils’ vocabulary becomes increasingly sophisticated as they progress through the year groups. The school has successfully improved attendance rates, ensuring that pupils attend regularly and punctually.
Personal development is a key focus, with a program designed to provide a wide range of experiences that help pupils develop various skills and talents. Opportunities for exploration of the local area, participation in musical performances, and engagement in sporting competitions are integral to the school’s offerings. Parents express overwhelming positivity about the school, appreciating the support provided to each child and the attention given to staff well-being.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To further improve, the school is encouraged to continue embedding its ambitious mathematics curriculum to enhance understanding among all pupils. Overall, Charlton Church of England Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for its students.
