Maple Grove Primary School, located in Pitsea, Basildon, Essex, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on September 14 and 15, 2021. The school has demonstrated effectiveness across various areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. Pupils express pride in their school and respond positively to the high expectations set by leaders and teachers. The staff's caring and consistent approach fosters a conducive learning environment where pupils are eager to learn and behave well.
The school offers a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports and computing, enhancing the overall educational experience. Innovative use of technology, like virtual headsets, allows pupils to explore new places, while the school council teaches them about leadership and effective communication. Strong relationships among leaders, pupils, and families contribute to a supportive atmosphere where pupils feel included and valued, regardless of their backgrounds. The school effectively integrates pupils with special educational needs and disabilities into all aspects of school life, ensuring they receive the necessary support.
Bullying is infrequent, and pupils feel confident that any issues will be addressed promptly by their teachers. The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its pupils, creating an environment where they feel secure and cared for. The early years provision is well-structured, with leaders focusing on essential skills to prepare children for their transition to Year 1. Reading is emphasized as a priority, with teachers ensuring that high-quality literature is shared with pupils and that phonics instruction is effectively delivered.
The curriculum is ambitious and thoughtfully designed, focusing on key knowledge across subjects. Leaders have sequenced the curriculum to help pupils understand the connections between different areas of study. However, some teachers are still developing their subject knowledge in areas like history, geography, and religious education, which can affect the quality of instruction. Additionally, assessments in certain subjects may not always provide accurate insights into pupils' understanding of critical content.
Leaders and teachers are committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs, tailoring their teaching to meet individual needs effectively. The personal, social, and health education curriculum prepares pupils to be informed members of society, fostering resilience and positive attitudes. The school environment promotes good behavior, and teachers maintain a calm atmosphere conducive to learning. Attendance has improved due to the efforts of leaders working closely with families and external agencies.
The multi-academy trust provides valuable leadership support and staff training, particularly in reading, which has positively impacted the curriculum. The school has cultivated a positive work environment for staff, who feel supported in managing their workload and take pride in being part of the school community. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with clear responsibilities among leaders and staff to ensure the safety and well-being of pupils. Leaders actively monitor safeguarding concerns and ensure that staff are well-informed about their responsibilities.
To further improve, the school should focus on enhancing teachers' understanding of subject content to inform their teaching decisions better. Additionally, assessments should be refined to accurately reflect pupils' knowledge of the curriculum. Overall, Maple Grove Primary School is a thriving educational institution that prioritizes the needs of its pupils while fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
