St Paulinus Church of England Primary School, located in Crayford, Dartford, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 18 and 19, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Charlotte Rhodes, the school is part of the Amadeus Primary Academies Trust, which involves shared responsibilities for governance and management. The trust is overseen by CEO Peter Rhodes and a board of trustees chaired by Mark Blakely.
The school emphasizes the values of kindness and respect, encouraging pupils to practice these principles through various activities, such as acting as buddies to younger students and engaging in charitable fundraising. High expectations for academic achievement are evident, particularly in writing and mathematics, as reflected in the national assessment tests for Year 6 pupils. The school is aware of areas where pupils may lack detailed knowledge and has made adjustments to the curriculum and teaching methods to enhance academic outcomes.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with clear expectations set by teachers that help maintain focus on learning. The school effectively addresses any instances of bullying, with ongoing efforts to prevent and respond to such issues through assemblies and discussions. Recent initiatives have expanded the range of educational visits, allowing pupils to explore local areas and participate in residential trips, enhancing their learning experiences.
The curriculum is well-planned and comprehensive, with recent changes aimed at deepening the content studied by pupils. Leaders have identified key concepts that students need to grasp, facilitating connections between prior learning and new material. However, some older pupils have not benefited from the full breadth of the revised curriculum, resulting in gaps in their knowledge of essential concepts.
Staff training is focused on delivering the curriculum in engaging ways, ensuring that teachers are well-equipped to support pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. However, there is a need for improvement in ensuring that pupils consistently use key vocabulary in their work, as this can hinder their ability to articulate their knowledge effectively.
The school has responded promptly to a decline in phonics test outcomes by implementing a new phonics scheme and providing staff training to enhance delivery. Early years pupils are systematically taught to decode and read, with ample opportunities to engage with well-matched reading materials. The school identifies pupils needing additional support and provides targeted assistance to help them catch up.
Pupils are taught to follow routines and understand behavioral expectations from the outset, contributing to a focused learning environment. Attendance rates are generally high, with the school actively monitoring and supporting pupils whose attendance falls below expectations.
The school places significant emphasis on teaching British values, promoting tolerance and respect for diverse backgrounds. Pupils learn about healthy relationships and safety, including online safety. While some parents have expressed mixed views about the school, leaders are committed to fostering stronger partnerships with the school community.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. The school is encouraged to address gaps in older pupils' knowledge and enhance staff training for meeting the specific needs of all pupils with special educational needs. Overall, St Paulinus Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
