Silverdale Primary Academy, located in St Leonards-on-Sea, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on October 10 and 11, 2023. The principal, Jonathan Morris, leads the school, which is part of the University of Brighton Academies Trust. The trust is overseen by Dr. John Smith, the chief executive officer, and a board of trustees chaired by Professor Christopher Pole. The school fosters an environment where pupils develop excellent manners, mutual respect, and politeness, creating a positive atmosphere where students feel safe and happy.
The school sets high expectations for all its pupils, encouraging them to work diligently to meet these standards in both learning and behavior. Pupils are motivated by the school's unique 'ninja code,' which promotes values such as ambition, courage, and determination. They strive to achieve the status of 'ultimate ninja' by demonstrating these values consistently. The behavior of pupils is commendable, as they understand the importance of being ready, respectful, and safe. They appreciate the recognition they receive for positive behavior and trust the staff to address any concerns they may have.
Silverdale Primary Academy offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including various sports clubs, ensuring that all pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, have access to enriching experiences. The curriculum is well-structured and ambitious, with careful adaptations made for disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders have clearly defined learning objectives and a logical progression of topics, which helps pupils retain knowledge over time. For instance, Year 2 pupils learn about continents and oceans, which is further developed in Year 4 with a focus on coastal processes.
Staff at the school possess strong subject knowledge and effectively communicate new concepts to pupils. They regularly revisit key ideas, enabling students to build a solid understanding over time. The teaching of reading has improved significantly, with a robust phonics program in place from the start of Reception. Struggling readers receive tailored support, allowing them to gain confidence and fluency. Older pupils develop a love for reading, enjoying access to a vibrant library and a wide variety of books that expose them to different cultures and historical contexts.
While the school has made strides in improving attendance, there are still challenges, particularly among disadvantaged pupils who do not attend regularly enough. This issue can lead to gaps in their learning. Personal development is a strong focus, with leaders ensuring that disadvantaged pupils have access to opportunities that foster their interests, such as music lessons. Older pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles, supporting younger students during lunchtime and contributing positively to the school community.
The leadership team is effective at all levels, with the trust board actively supporting the local governing body and considering staff workload in decision-making processes. The arrangements for safeguarding are robust, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. However, the school must address the issue of persistent absence among some pupils, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to ensure they do not miss out on essential learning opportunities. Overall, Silverdale Primary Academy continues to provide a high-quality education, with a strong emphasis on personal development and a commitment to supporting all pupils in their learning journey.
