Minster in Sheppey Primary School, located in Kent, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on March 9 and 10, 2022. The school provides a positive learning environment where pupils enjoy their education both in the classroom and through outdoor activities such as beach and forest school. Students feel safe and well-supported, knowing that staff are available to assist with any concerns. The leadership team maintains high expectations for all students, resulting in strong performance, particularly in English and mathematics. However, some pupils require additional support in reading to meet age-related expectations.
The behavior of pupils is commendable, with a nurturing approach from staff fostering a positive school culture. Students actively contribute to the school community by taking on various roles, such as anti-bullying ambassadors and caring for animals on the school grounds. This involvement helps build their confidence and sense of belonging. Parents appreciate the dedication of the staff, especially during the challenges posed by the pandemic, and feel that their children receive the necessary support to develop their talents. Some parents, however, express concerns that the focus on reading targets may detract from fostering a love of reading in their children.
The school excels in personal development, with a well-structured curriculum for personal, social, and health education that has been adapted to meet the needs of students post-pandemic. The curriculum includes relationship and sex education, and pupils report positive experiences with this aspect of their learning. They are encouraged to engage in community service and develop leadership skills through various initiatives. Despite the overall positive atmosphere, the school acknowledges that attendance remains an issue, with some pupils persistently absent.
Leaders recognize the need to enhance early reading instruction, as some children in Reception are not progressing quickly enough. There is a plan to implement a new phonics program and ensure staff receive adequate training. The wider reading curriculum is robust, but leaders are mindful of balancing the demands of the program to prevent student anxiety. The mathematics curriculum is well-sequenced, and teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge, resulting in positive student attitudes towards the subject.
In science and foundation subjects, the curriculum is still developing, with some areas requiring further refinement to ensure that knowledge is sequenced effectively. The pandemic has impacted the implementation of these subjects, and leaders are aware of the need for continued improvement. The commitment of senior leaders and trustees to the school is evident, although they express frustration over the pandemic's impact on curriculum development.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to identify and support pupils in need. The school has a strong understanding of local community risks and ensures that safe recruitment practices are followed. Overall, while the school demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in early reading instruction, attendance, and the sequencing of knowledge in foundation subjects. The leadership team is dedicated to addressing these challenges to enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
