St Margaret’s at Troy Town CofE Voluntary Controlled Primary School in Rochester, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on December 1 and 2, 2021. The school is characterized by a friendly, inclusive, and welcoming environment where pupils take pride in their learning experiences. Students express enthusiasm for their lessons, particularly enjoying subjects like geography and science, where they engage with topics such as continents and animal adaptations. The high expectations set by the staff foster a culture of eagerness among pupils to learn and please their teachers, leading to a productive classroom atmosphere.
The school has successfully navigated a period of significant change since its last inspection, with the headteacher and her team raising expectations and addressing previous weaknesses in learning and behavior. Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, the leadership has remained committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that staff morale is high and that the school environment is calm and purposeful. Pupils feel safe and supported, with a strong emphasis on kindness and the prevention of bullying, which is effectively managed by the staff.
The curriculum has been thoughtfully developed, with clear plans in place for all subjects. Teachers are well-prepared and confident in delivering engaging lessons, particularly in mathematics, where pupils demonstrate proficiency and interest. The youngest children are provided with a variety of activities to develop their number skills, ensuring a solid foundation for their future learning. However, the pandemic has impacted the full implementation of the revised curriculum, particularly in subjects outside of English and mathematics. Leaders are currently working to address these gaps and ensure that all subjects are delivered effectively.
The school is in the process of transitioning to a new phonics program to improve reading skills, following a decline in phonics proficiency among pupils. Leaders are aware of the need for additional support for those who are behind, particularly older pupils in key stage two. The school’s commitment to safeguarding is evident, with effective procedures in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all students. Staff are well-informed about safeguarding protocols, and there is a strong partnership with parents to support pupils’ needs.
While the school has made significant strides, there are areas for further development. The curriculum adaptations for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities require more attention to ensure that these students receive the support they need to thrive. The newly appointed special educational needs coordinator is focused on addressing these challenges and implementing effective strategies for improvement.
Overall, St Margaret’s at Troy Town CofE Voluntary Controlled Primary School is a good school that provides a supportive and engaging learning environment for its pupils. The leadership team is dedicated to continuous improvement, and with ongoing efforts to enhance the curriculum and support for all learners, the school is well-positioned for future success. The positive feedback from parents and the community reflects the school’s commitment to excellence in education and the well-being of its students.
