Stone St Mary’s C of E Primary School, located in Greenhithe, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection in February 2020. The leadership team, governors, and trust work collaboratively to ensure that every pupil thrives in a supportive environment. Pupils feel a strong sense of community, where individuals from diverse backgrounds come together, fostering a safe atmosphere where they can express themselves and seek help when needed. The behavior of pupils is commendable, as they listen attentively during lessons and navigate the school calmly. The school’s values of caring, growing, and shining are well understood by the pupils, guiding their interactions and promoting a harmonious community.
While instances of bullying do occur, they are reported and addressed promptly by the leadership team. Pupils are educated about the nature of bullying and understand that it contradicts the school’s values. The school offers a wide array of extracurricular activities, which pupils enjoy, including participation in the school choir and events like the Young Voices performance at the O2.
The curriculum at Stone St Mary’s is broad and engaging, with a focus on ensuring that pupils build on their prior knowledge and make connections across subjects. For instance, lessons in mathematics about money are linked to discussions in personal, social, health, and economic education. The school places a high priority on reading, beginning with systematic phonics instruction in Reception. Teachers effectively assess pupils’ progress and provide necessary support to those who struggle, ensuring that no child is left behind.
Guided reading sessions are designed to enhance specific reading skills, such as inference, and pupils appreciate the guidance they receive in selecting appropriate reading materials. The school is committed to supporting all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Effective processes are in place for identifying these needs, allowing most pupils to remain in class and access the full curriculum. However, there are instances where the support provided may not be as effective, leading to an over-reliance on adult assistance.
Pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles within the school, participating in councils that help them develop their organizational skills. Classrooms are conducive to learning, with clear behavioral expectations that pupils follow. Staff members express pride in their work at the school, feeling supported by leadership in managing their workload and collaborating in small teams.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are robust, with leaders prioritizing the safety and well-being of pupils. Staff are well-trained to recognize and respond to safeguarding concerns, and they maintain strong relationships with pupils and their families to identify when additional support is needed. Pupils are educated about online safety and know how to seek help if they have concerns.
To further improve, the school should focus on ensuring that the curriculum is consistently adapted to meet the needs of all pupils, particularly those with special educational needs. Leaders are aware of the areas that require attention and are committed to providing the necessary training and monitoring to enhance the educational experience for every pupil. Overall, Stone St Mary’s C of E Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education in a nurturing environment.
