Hoo St Werburgh Primary School and the Marlborough, located in Rochester, Kent, has recently undergone an inspection from Ofsted, which took place from March 5 to March 6, 2024. The school has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision. The personal development aspect of the school has been rated as outstanding. The executive headteacher, Emma Poad, leads the school, which is part of the Rivermead Inclusive Trust, overseen by CEO Tina Lovey and a board of trustees chaired by Justin Stuart.
The school is characterized by a nurturing environment where pupils feel cared for and valued. The values of courage, confidence, respect, and belonging are deeply embedded in the school culture, guiding the decisions made by staff. Pupils are encouraged to engage in various activities, such as becoming character ambassadors to support local charities, which fosters a sense of community and responsibility. The school has high expectations for all pupils, and this ambition is reflected in their hard work and achievements, particularly in English and mathematics.
Behaviour among pupils is commendable, with students playing cooperatively and sharing resources during playtime. The school provides support mechanisms, such as the koala club, which helps pupils address their concerns and express their feelings. This proactive approach contributes to a safe and supportive atmosphere where pupils feel heard and understood.
In terms of academic performance, the school has structured its curriculum effectively, particularly in English and mathematics, where pupils have shown positive examination results. However, there are areas for improvement in some subjects where the school has not clearly defined the knowledge pupils need to acquire. This lack of clarity can hinder the systematic development of knowledge and skills across the curriculum. The school is actively working to enhance staff training to improve subject knowledge and ensure that assessment practices are effectively used to gauge pupil understanding.
The school excels in providing tailored support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, particularly through its specialist provision, The Marlborough. Staff make individualized adaptations to meet the needs of these pupils, enabling them to thrive academically and socially. Reading is a strong focus, with early years pupils showing enthusiasm and progress in phonics, supported by skilled staff who monitor and address gaps in understanding.
The relationships between staff and pupils are characterized by warmth and respect, fostering an environment conducive to learning. While most pupils demonstrate focus and independence, there are instances where a few students struggle to follow instructions and maintain concentration. School leaders are aware of these challenges and are implementing strategies to address them.
Pupils' personal development is a significant strength of the school, with robust welfare and pastoral support systems in place. The school effectively addresses the social and emotional needs of its students, leading to improved attendance and a deeper understanding of relationships and health. Leaders are committed to the continuous improvement of the school, prioritizing staff well-being and professional development, which contributes to a collaborative and supportive teaching environment.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare is prioritized. Overall, Hoo St Werburgh Primary School and the Marlborough demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for all its pupils, with clear areas identified for further development to enhance the educational experience.
