Dymchurch Primary School, located in Kent, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its strengths and areas for improvement. The school is led by Jenny Ross, with oversight from the Our Community Multi Academy Trust, which includes a CEO and a board of trustees. The inspection took place on October 1 and 2, 2024, and the school received positive evaluations across several key areas. The quality of education was rated as good, while behaviour and attitudes, as well as personal development, were rated as outstanding. Leadership and management, along with early years provision, were also rated as good.
Pupils at Dymchurch Primary School take pride in their education and are motivated to engage with the curriculum. They demonstrate a strong understanding of essential knowledge and skills across various subjects. The school fosters a sense of community, encouraging pupils to participate in local initiatives, such as fundraising for charities and creating Christmas cards for those in need. The school values diversity and promotes respect for different cultures and religions, which is evident in the pupils' eagerness to learn about various backgrounds.
The school has high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is designed to meet the needs of all learners, and the commitment to improving educational outcomes is evident. However, the inspection noted that the disappointing results from the key stage two national tests in 2023 do not accurately reflect the overall progress of the pupils.
Teachers at Dymchurch Primary School are knowledgeable and effective in their instruction, ensuring that pupils understand important concepts and skills. The school has implemented effective strategies to help pupils recall prior learning and apply it in new contexts. While most subjects benefit from these strategies, there are a few areas where they are not fully embedded, which can hinder pupils' ability to build on their knowledge.
The school places a strong emphasis on developing confident and fluent readers. The phonics program is particularly effective, providing a solid foundation for early reading skills. As pupils progress, they engage with increasingly complex texts, fostering a love for reading.
Dymchurch Primary School is dedicated to supporting families facing challenges, working to improve attendance and providing guidance where needed. The school environment is characterized by exceptional behaviour, with pupils learning to manage their emotions and support one another. The range of extracurricular activities, including sports and wellness programs, contributes to the overall development of the pupils.
The staff at Dymchurch Primary School work collaboratively, benefiting from shared practices within the trust. This support helps manage workloads and enhances the educational experience for both staff and pupils. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students.
To further improve, the school needs to ensure that effective teaching strategies are consistently applied across all subjects. This will help pupils achieve their full potential and build on their prior learning more effectively. Overall, Dymchurch Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
