Beaver Green Primary School, located in Ashford, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 13 and 14, 2023. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where all pupils are encouraged to succeed. From the outset, pupils are motivated by the high expectations set by staff, which begins in the nursery and continues throughout their education. The positive feedback from pupils highlights their enjoyment of the diverse and engaging subjects offered, as well as their dedication to their studies.
The relationships within the school are characterized by warmth and respect. Pupils appreciate the incentives provided for demonstrating positive behaviors, such as the It's good to be green program. They exhibit politeness and confidence when interacting with adults and feel secure in their school environment, knowing they can rely on staff to address any instances of unkind behavior. The core values of empathy, equality, and aspiration are integrated into daily school life, and pupils actively promote a welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
Teachers at Beaver Green Primary School employ various methods to make learning engaging and relevant. Outdoor learning experiences, such as those offered through the forest school, are highly valued by pupils, who also enjoy participating in daily dance sessions. The school encourages pupils to explore their talents, whether through learning musical instruments or engaging in performances. Pupils feel their opinions are valued, as evidenced by their involvement in school and eco councils, which have led to improvements in the school environment and the selection of charities for fundraising efforts.
The school has made significant strides in enhancing its curriculum, with leaders focusing on ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve well. Teachers are well-supported by subject leaders, who provide guidance on the knowledge pupils need to acquire. This structured approach allows for incremental knowledge building over time. While most subjects are taught effectively, there are instances where some staff lack strong subject expertise, which can hinder pupils' learning in those areas.
Beaver Green Primary School offers a broad and balanced curriculum that prepares pupils for the next stage of their education, particularly in the early years, where children are well-equipped for key stage one. Most pupils, including those with special educational needs, achieve commendable results. However, some disadvantaged pupils struggle to grasp foundational concepts, and leaders are aware of this issue, implementing plans to support these students in improving their understanding and retention of knowledge.
The school excels in its phonics instruction, providing children with a solid foundation for reading. In the nursery, children engage with stories and rhymes, while phonics teaching effectively develops their vocabulary. Staff are proactive in identifying pupils who may struggle with reading and provide additional support. However, there are instances where some staff use less effective methods for assisting weaker readers, resulting in slower progress for certain pupils.
Behavior at Beaver Green Primary School is generally positive, with a calm and organized atmosphere. Pupils of all ages interact well during playtime, although a small minority may find it challenging to meet the school's behavioral expectations. Staff are attentive to these needs, providing quiet spaces for pupils to regroup when necessary.
The personal development of pupils is a strong aspect of the school, with leaders actively seeking ways to enrich their experiences. A wide range of extracurricular activities, including golf, yoga, and art, is available, and pupils receive education about various faiths and cultures, fostering curiosity and a strong sense of equality and morality.
Governance at the school is robust, with governors and trustees demonstrating a deep understanding of the school and its community. They work closely with leaders to prioritize the well-being of both staff and pupils. Staff morale is high, and there is a strong sense of pride in being part of the school community, particularly under the leadership of the new headteacher.
The safeguarding arrangements at Beaver Green Primary School are effective, with a strong culture of safety. Recruitment checks are thorough, and leaders have established comprehensive systems to address any safeguarding concerns promptly. Staff are well-trained to recognize potential risks and are vigilant in reporting any issues. The curriculum also effectively teaches pupils about safety, including online safety.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to ensure that all pupils fully understand and can recall key concepts, particularly disadvantaged pupils who may not achieve as well as their peers. Additionally, enhancing staff training to strengthen subject knowledge across all areas will further support pupil learning and retention of knowledge.
