Leigh Stationers’ Primary Academy, located in Welling, Kent, has been recognized for its outstanding overall effectiveness in education. The school, led by Principal Rebecca England, is part of the Leigh Academies Trust, which oversees its governance and operational responsibilities. The recent inspection conducted on October 15 and 16, 2024, confirmed that the school has effectively maintained the high standards established during its previous inspection in March 2019.
Pupils at Leigh Stationers’ Primary Academy exhibit a strong enthusiasm for learning and a commitment to their school community. They are encouraged to develop into thoughtful and well-rounded individuals, with a genuine desire to make a positive impact both within the school and in the wider world. The adults in the school are dedicated to supporting the well-being of the students, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment. The positive sentiment among students is evident, with many expressing their love for attending school daily.
The school has established high expectations for its pupils, who respond by excelling in their academic pursuits. They take pride in their achievements and are motivated to produce high-quality work. The curriculum is designed to provide a rich array of experiences, including unique opportunities such as snowboarding and attending literary events at prestigious venues like the Royal Albert Hall. This diverse range of activities contributes to a well-rounded educational experience.
Behaviour among pupils is exemplary, both in and out of the classroom. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, they are addressed effectively by staff. The school fosters a culture of care and consideration, with pupils actively looking out for one another and understanding their shared responsibility in creating a positive school environment.
Academically, pupils consistently achieve high standards, often exceeding expectations in national assessments. The school has meticulously planned its curriculum to ensure that pupils build knowledge progressively from Nursery through Year 6. This approach allows for regular revisiting of key concepts, facilitating deeper understanding and connections across subjects. For instance, younger pupils learn about historical events like the Great Fire of London, while older students engage with more complex ideas regarding historical bias.
Teachers at the school demonstrate excellent subject knowledge and provide clear, effective instruction. They break down challenging tasks to ensure all pupils can engage successfully. The school also offers robust support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that all students have access to the same high-quality education.
In the early years, staff are particularly skilled in promoting communication and language development, encouraging children to express themselves confidently. Reading is prioritized from the outset, with effective phonics instruction helping pupils to develop essential literacy skills. The school is proactive in identifying pupils who may be at risk of falling behind and provides targeted support to help them catch up.
Attendance rates are high, reflecting pupils' enjoyment of learning and their appreciation for being part of the school community. The school offers personalized support to families to address any attendance issues that may arise.
Opportunities for personal development are well-structured and of high quality, teaching pupils to value diversity and develop important attributes such as inquiry and principled behavior. Pupils take their responsibilities seriously, contributing positively to the school environment through roles such as peer mentors and council members.
Leaders at Leigh Stationers’ Primary Academy are committed to providing the best possible education for their pupils. Staff feel supported and valued, benefiting from ongoing training and development. The governance provided by the trust and local academy board is effective, ensuring that the school remains focused on delivering an excellent educational experience. The arrangements for safeguarding are robust, contributing to a safe and secure environment for all pupils.
