Elaine Primary School, located in Rochester, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy in May 2018. The inspection, conducted on September 21 and 22, 2022, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across all evaluated areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has established a positive environment where pupils feel happy and safe. Relationships between pupils and teachers are characterized by respect, and pupils appreciate the support and interest shown by their teachers. The curriculum is ambitious, with a strong emphasis on reading, enabling most pupils to become confident and fluent readers.
Pupils at Elaine Primary School demonstrate a clear understanding of bullying, recognizing that incidents are rare. When conflicts arise, teachers are attentive and assist in resolving issues. The school maintains high expectations for pupil behavior, providing necessary support for those who struggle with emotional regulation. This approach fosters a calm and purposeful classroom atmosphere, conducive to learning. Pupils are encouraged to take on various responsibilities, contributing positively to the school community.
The leadership team is ambitious for all pupils, creating a curriculum that raises aspirations and offers engaging experiences across subjects. The trust associated with the school facilitates opportunities for professional development among staff, ensuring that teachers are equipped to meet the diverse needs of pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The early years curriculum is well-structured, focusing on language development through engaging books, and staff effectively assess and plan activities to support children's skill development.
The phonics program implemented by the school is organized and well-supported, with staff possessing the necessary skills to teach phonics effectively. Regular assessments ensure that pupils are matched with appropriate reading materials, and additional support is provided for those who need it. The school promotes a culture of reading through initiatives such as reading corners and parent-child reading sessions.
In subjects like mathematics and art, the curriculum is sequenced thoughtfully, allowing pupils to engage deeply with the material. However, in geography, some pupils lack the foundational knowledge needed to grasp complex concepts, partly due to learning disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Leaders are aware of this issue and are working to refine the curriculum to address these gaps.
While the school has made significant strides, there are areas for improvement. Leaders are in the process of enhancing assessment practices in certain subjects to ensure that teachers can accurately identify and address knowledge gaps among pupils. Additionally, the school aims to strengthen partnerships with families to encourage consistent attendance.
The safeguarding arrangements at Elaine Primary School are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to pupil needs. The school collaborates with external agencies to provide necessary support. Overall, the inspection highlighted the school's commitment to fostering a safe and nurturing environment for all pupils, while also identifying areas for continued growth and development. The leadership team is dedicated to driving improvements and ensuring that every child receives a high-quality education.
