Wyburns Primary School, located in Rayleigh, Essex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 24 and 25, 2022. The school fosters a strong sense of community among its pupils, who express that everyone cares for one another. A notable initiative is the 'green hats' program, where older students actively seek to assist younger peers in the playground. The school celebrates pupils' kindness and efforts during weekly assemblies, reinforcing a culture of support and encouragement.
Pupils feel safe at Wyburns Primary and have a clear understanding of bullying, which they report as infrequent. The school has implemented a 'worry buddies' system in each classroom, allowing students to communicate their concerns to teachers. This trust in adults ensures that pupils feel supported in addressing any issues they may encounter.
Academic engagement is high, with pupils eager to challenge themselves in lessons. Teachers encourage students to step outside their comfort zones, providing assistance whenever necessary. The behavior of pupils is commendable, both in classrooms and throughout the school. When needed, staff help students identify and manage their emotions and behaviors effectively.
The school offers a rich array of extracurricular activities, including trips, visits, and events that promote physical and artistic engagement. Pupils participate in dance and sports festivals, enjoy a sensory garden, and engage in reading activities that foster a love for literature. They express enthusiasm for theatre trips and author visits, further enhancing their educational experience.
Wyburns Primary has established a well-structured curriculum that spans a broad range of subjects from early years to Year 6. School leaders have identified essential knowledge for each year group and organized the curriculum to build upon prior learning. Staff deliver this curriculum effectively, providing opportunities for pupils to practice their skills through progressively challenging tasks. In mathematics, for instance, new concepts are introduced before students apply their learning to problem-solving scenarios. Teachers monitor understanding closely and offer additional support when necessary.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. Some pupils require more precise assistance to catch up in their learning, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Additionally, while vocabulary instruction is a focus, consistency in teaching new vocabulary across lessons can be enhanced to ensure all pupils develop a comprehensive understanding.
Reading instruction begins in Reception, with regular assessments to identify gaps in learning. Pupils are provided with appropriately leveled books to practice their phonics skills, leading to confident and fluent reading by the end of Key Stage 2. Daily reading lessons expose students to a variety of texts, fostering enthusiasm for literature.
The school prioritizes safeguarding, with effective arrangements in place. Staff are well-trained to recognize potential risks and report concerns promptly. Pupils feel confident that their voices will be heard and that they will receive help when needed. The curriculum includes safety education, covering online safety and general well-being.
Governance at Wyburns Primary is strong, with governors and trustees well-informed about the school's operations. They recognize the support provided by the CEO in raising standards. Staff appreciate the leadership's efforts to manage workload and well-being, contributing to a positive working environment.
In summary, Wyburns Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational experience for its pupils. While there are areas for growth, particularly in vocabulary instruction and targeted support for some students, the overall environment is one of care, engagement, and academic achievement.
