Shalford Primary School, located in Braintree, Essex, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on September 24-25, 2019. The school, which opened as an academy in December 2016, has shown significant improvement since its inception. The inspection highlighted the school's friendly environment where pupils feel happy and cared for. The small class sizes foster a sense of community, allowing pupils to know and look after one another. They enjoy participating in various clubs and activities, including sports and trips, which enhance their educational experience.
The quality of education provided at Shalford Primary is commendable. Pupils engage actively in their learning and can articulate their recent studies, such as classifying rocks in science. The teaching of core subjects like reading, writing, and mathematics is generally well organized, with most teachers effectively planning activities that cater to the diverse needs of pupils. However, there are some inconsistencies in the level of challenge presented to students, indicating room for improvement.
The school has implemented a valuable induction program for new pupils, which includes family engagement activities. The outdoor area for the Reception and Year 1 classes has been refurbished, providing additional learning opportunities. The teaching of phonics is strong, and there is a focus on fostering a love of reading from an early age. Pupils with special educational needs receive good support, ensuring their inclusion in all aspects of school life.
Behaviour among pupils is positive, with a culture of respect and tolerance evident throughout the school. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils feel confident in addressing any concerns they may have. The school promotes personal, social, and health education effectively, with pupils actively participating in community studies.
Leadership and management at Shalford Primary are strong, with leaders supported by the multi-academy trust. Staff development is prioritized, contributing to a positive working environment. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff well-trained and vigilant in ensuring the safety of all pupils.
Despite the strengths, the school recognizes the need for further development in its curriculum planning and implementation. Leaders are working to ensure that the curriculum is coherently sequenced and that knowledge builds on prior learning. There are gaps in coverage in subjects like science and history, and curriculum leaders need to enhance their understanding of how their subjects are taught.
Overall, Shalford Primary School provides a good quality of education, with a supportive environment that fosters pupil well-being and engagement. The school is on a positive trajectory, with leaders actively addressing areas for improvement to enhance the educational experience for all pupils. The commitment to continuous improvement is evident, and with ongoing efforts, the school is well-positioned to achieve even greater success in the future.
