Pilgrims Way Primary School is a vibrant and supportive educational environment located in Canterbury. The school has received a good overall effectiveness rating in its recent inspection, reflecting its commitment to providing quality education and fostering positive relationships among pupils. The school community is characterized by a strong sense of belonging, where pupils feel happy, safe, and encouraged to do their best. The core values of respect, resilience, aspiration, positivity, and success are integral to the school's ethos, guiding both staff and students in their daily interactions.
Pupils at Pilgrims Way enjoy their learning experiences and take pride in their achievements. The school emphasizes the importance of making mistakes as a part of the learning process, which helps to cultivate a growth mindset among students. The well-being of pupils is prioritized, with strong, trusting relationships established between staff and students. This supportive atmosphere contributes to good behavior in lessons and throughout the school, with pupils actively participating in physical activities such as the daily mile.
The leadership team, including the headteacher and trust leaders, has made significant improvements since the school's previous inspection. They have implemented an ambitious curriculum designed to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school is particularly focused on developing communication and language skills, especially for pupils who are learning English as an additional language. The curriculum is well-structured in subjects like mathematics, where key knowledge and skills are clearly defined, allowing pupils to build on their prior learning effectively.
However, there are areas for improvement. In some subjects, the essential knowledge and skills that pupils need to learn are not as clearly articulated as in others. This inconsistency can lead to gaps in understanding and retention of information. Leaders are encouraged to refine the curriculum further to ensure that all subjects have well-defined learning objectives that align with the school's high standards.
Reading is a key priority at Pilgrims Way, with a strong emphasis on phonics from the early years. Children are introduced to rhymes, stories, and songs, which helps them develop a love for reading. Staff are well-trained in teaching reading, and pupils are provided with books that match their phonetic knowledge, promoting fluency and confidence in their reading abilities. The school encourages a culture of reading for pleasure, with pupils discussing their favorite books and authors.
The school also places importance on developing teachers' expertise and leadership skills, fostering a collaborative environment where staff feel valued and supported. The board of trustees and governors play an active role in the school's development, sharing the vision and aspirations of the leadership team.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks to pupils. The school ensures that pupils learn how to keep themselves safe, including online safety. The well-being and safety of pupils are paramount, and the school community works diligently to maintain a secure environment.
Overall, Pilgrims Way Primary School is a good school with a strong foundation for further improvement. The leadership team is committed to refining the curriculum and ensuring that all pupils receive a high-quality education that prepares them for future success. The positive relationships, supportive atmosphere, and focus on well-being contribute to a thriving school community where pupils can flourish.
