Stoke-by-Nayland Church of England Primary School, located in Stoke by Nayland, Suffolk, has recently undergone an inspection on September 26 and 27, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, a significant improvement from its previous inspection grade of inadequate. The headteacher, Kelly McGrath, leads the school, which is part of the St Edmundsbury and Ipswich Diocesan Multi-Academy Trust. This trust plays a vital role in the governance and management of the school, with oversight from a board of trustees chaired by Thomas Brooke and the chief executive officer, Jane Sheat.
Pupils at Stoke-by-Nayland Primary School demonstrate a strong desire to learn and excel in their studies. They respond positively to the high expectations set by their teachers, who create engaging and enjoyable learning experiences. The school environment is described as calm and harmonious, fostering a sense of community among students. Older pupils take on responsibilities to support younger ones, promoting kindness and compassion throughout the school. The values upheld by the school are well understood by the students, who adhere to established routines and rules.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including eco club and choir, which are well-attended by students. Educational trips to local points of interest enhance the curriculum, and pupils actively participate in the school council, sharing their opinions and contributing to the local community, such as supporting the local food bank.
The trust has effectively utilized resources and support to sustain improvement within the school. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to build their knowledge progressively. Staff members are dedicated to ensuring that learning is tailored to the needs of mixed-age classes, providing a clear structure for students. While staff are proficient in assessing pupils' understanding through quizzes and tasks, there is room for improvement in adapting lessons to accelerate the progress of students who have already mastered certain skills.
Reading instruction is a strong point at the school, with a systematic phonics program in place. Staff consistently deliver this program, and pupils are matched with reading materials that align with their phonetic knowledge, fostering confidence in their reading abilities. Those requiring additional support receive targeted teaching to help them catch up, while fluent readers develop a passion for literature.
The school has established effective systems for identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Nearly half of the students have individual support plans, which are utilized to ensure they can access the curriculum alongside their peers. The trust provides ongoing training for teachers to address the diverse needs of students.
Behaviour in the school is commendable, with pupils demonstrating an understanding of good citizenship. The curriculum emphasizes social responsibility, cultural understanding, and the importance of healthy relationships. The trust and local governors maintain a close relationship with the school, ensuring that staff are supported in their roles.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, although there are areas for improvement in record-keeping. School leaders prioritize the safety of vulnerable pupils and collaborate with external agencies to provide necessary support. Staff are trained to recognize signs of abuse and know how to report concerns.
To further enhance the school's performance, it is recommended that staff improve their use of formative assessment to better facilitate the progression of pupils through the curriculum. Additionally, the trust should ensure consistency in safeguarding record-keeping practices to provide a comprehensive overview of vulnerable pupils' situations. Overall, Stoke-by-Nayland Church of England Primary School is on a positive trajectory, demonstrating significant improvements in various aspects of its educational provision.
