Glebe Primary School, located in Rayleigh, Essex, has recently undergone an inspection on the 8th and 9th of October 2024. The school has received a commendable rating of 'Good' across all key areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This marks a significant improvement from its previous inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement.
Under the leadership of headteacher Martyn Clarke, the school is part of the Rayleigh Schools Trust, which provides additional support and oversight through its chief executive officer, Katharine Dines, and a board of trustees chaired by Jo Wincott. The school community is characterized by a strong sense of pride among pupils, who are described as enthusiastic ambassadors for their school. The environment at Glebe Primary is welcoming and positive, contributing to high levels of pupil enjoyment and engagement in their learning.
Pupils at Glebe Primary are encouraged to embrace the school's core values, which include leadership, excellence, and ambition. They demonstrate a strong work ethic and are motivated to achieve their best. The school has established high expectations for behaviour and academic performance, which pupils meet with enthusiasm. They express excitement about their learning experiences, discussing topics such as ancient Greece and espionage literature with great interest. The school recognizes and rewards positive attitudes towards learning, fostering a culture of achievement through certificates and points.
The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including various teams and clubs, which promote teamwork and celebrate collective successes, such as district sports championships. Leadership opportunities are available for pupils, who can take on roles such as team captains and prefects, and older students often mentor younger peers, reinforcing a culture of kindness and respect.
Glebe Primary has developed an ambitious curriculum that spans from Nursery to Year 6, aiming to provide pupils with a comprehensive educational journey. The curriculum is designed to engage pupils in meaningful learning experiences, starting with foundational topics in early years and progressing to more complex subjects in later years. Teachers are adept at adapting their instruction to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the consistency of curriculum implementation and the effectiveness of assessment and feedback practices, which can hinder some pupils from reaching their full potential.
Reading is a significant focus at Glebe Primary, with a strong emphasis on fostering a love for literature. The school has invested in a wide range of new books and resources, including a book vending machine, to encourage reading for pleasure. While younger pupils benefit from phonics instruction that aligns with their learning, there are inconsistencies in the teaching of early reading that need to be addressed to ensure all pupils develop fluency and comprehension skills effectively.
Behaviour at the school is generally positive, with clear policies in place that are consistently enforced. This creates a safe and supportive environment for all pupils. The school actively promotes attendance and works closely with families to address any issues that arise.
The personal development of pupils is well-supported through a curriculum that includes education on healthy lifestyles, mental health, and cultural awareness. Pupils engage in various activities that promote understanding and respect for diversity, contributing to a positive school culture.
Overall, Glebe Primary School demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and high standards of education. The leadership team is proactive in addressing areas for development and ensuring that all pupils receive the support they need to thrive academically and personally. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and further enhance the educational experience for its pupils.
