Coxheath Primary School, located in Maidstone, Kent, underwent its first inspection under the Education Act 2005 on February 7 and 8, 2023. The school has been rated as good overall, with specific areas such as behavior and attitudes, and personal development receiving outstanding ratings. The quality of education and early years provision were also rated as good, while leadership and management were deemed good as well. The school has not been previously inspected under the current framework, having converted to an academy in September 2018.
Pupils at Coxheath Primary School exhibit a strong sense of pride in their inclusive and welcoming environment. The relationships between pupils and staff are characterized by warmth and mutual respect, fostering a culture that celebrates diversity. Pupils demonstrate curiosity about different cultures and religions, promoting a respectful atmosphere where differences are acknowledged and valued. The school encourages kindness among pupils, who support one another through peer mediation during playtime, enhancing their social interactions.
The emotional well-being of pupils is prioritized, with systems in place for them to communicate their concerns to trusted adults. The use of a purple card allows pupils to signal when they need to talk, ensuring they feel heard and supported. The school’s nurture bus is particularly valued by pupils, providing them with additional emotional support. The curriculum is described as aspirational and engaging, motivating pupils to take pride in their work and respond positively to high expectations. Their behavior in lessons and throughout the school is exemplary.
Senior leaders collaborate closely with the multi-academy trust to foster a culture of professional learning among staff. They utilize educational research to implement an effective curriculum while being mindful of staff workload. The curriculum is designed to ignite curiosity and instill a passion for learning, particularly in subjects like art, where pupils are encouraged to express their creativity. However, some subjects are still in the early stages of development, and leaders are working to ensure that all subjects meet the same high standards.
Teachers are knowledgeable and skilled in their subject areas, effectively building on pupils' prior learning. The curriculum design allows for the revisiting of key concepts, enhancing pupils' understanding. Regular quizzes help reinforce learning and provide teachers with insights to support pupils who may need additional help. The phonics scheme is well-implemented, enabling children to develop strong reading skills from an early age, fostering a love for reading as they progress through the school.
The school is attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, providing tailored support and resources. However, there is a need for improved communication with parents regarding the development of individual plans for these pupils. Recent efforts have been made to enhance parental involvement in this process, but full implementation is still underway.
Coxheath Primary School excels in personal development, offering a range of opportunities for pupils to engage in sports, music, and community service. Pupils are encouraged to discuss important moral and ethical issues, contributing positively to their school and local community. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance ensuring pupils' welfare is prioritized. Overall, while the school demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in fully embedding the ambitious curriculum and enhancing parental involvement in supporting pupils with special educational needs.
