St Mary’s Church of England Primary School in Hadleigh, Suffolk, has been rated as good overall in its recent inspection. The school provides a friendly and welcoming environment where pupils are happy and enjoy attending. The school’s motto emphasizes love and respect, which is reflected in the behavior and attitudes of the students. They demonstrate a strong sense of community, contributing positively to local initiatives such as a food bank and visits to care homes. Pupils exhibit kindness and respect towards one another, and there are effective measures in place to address any issues that may arise, ensuring a safe and supportive atmosphere.
Leadership at the school is strong, with leaders demonstrating a commitment to the success of all pupils. They are supported by a dedicated governing body and work collaboratively to provide a high-quality education. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to understand what they are learning and how it connects across subjects. Leaders actively seek pupil input in their learning experiences, adapting the curriculum based on feedback, particularly in subjects like science and mathematics. The teaching of reading is particularly effective, with a focus on phonics and a diverse range of reading materials available to students.
The early years provision is outstanding, with children receiving a strong start to their education. They are motivated and engaged in their learning, benefiting from a well-planned curriculum that caters to their individual needs. Positive relationships with adults help children develop their language and social skills effectively. The school also prioritizes the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, providing additional support to ensure they can succeed.
Despite the many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Attendance rates, while improving, remain below the national average, and efforts are ongoing to encourage regular attendance among pupils. Additionally, some pupils, particularly those with special educational needs, may not always receive learning opportunities in mathematics that are appropriately matched to their abilities. Leaders are aware of this and are working to ensure that the mathematics curriculum is consistently adapted to meet the needs of all learners.
The school’s governors play a crucial role in its success, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for development. They hold the school accountable for educational outcomes and the effective use of resources while being mindful of staff workload. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff receiving regular training and maintaining clear communication with external agencies to support pupils and families.
Overall, St Mary’s Church of England Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and socially. The commitment of the leadership team, the supportive community, and the focus on high-quality teaching contribute to a positive educational experience for all students. Continued efforts to enhance attendance and tailor learning opportunities in mathematics will further strengthen the school’s provision, ensuring that every pupil can achieve their full potential.
