Elm Hall Primary School, located in Witham, Essex, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection took place on February 6 and 7, 2024, and the overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, and leadership and management were also rated as good, while personal development and early years provision received an outstanding rating.
The headteacher, Michael Wood, leads the school, which is part of the Attain Academy Partnership. The school has a calm and supportive environment where pupils feel safe and valued. They enjoy attending school and appreciate the engaging learning opportunities provided by their teachers. The strong relationships between pupils and staff contribute to a positive atmosphere, allowing pupils to thrive academically and socially.
Pupils are encouraged to take on various roles and responsibilities, such as Subject Ambassadors, which helps them develop confidence and independence. The school emphasizes the importance of values and positive behavior, ensuring that pupils understand the expectations set for them. This approach has resulted in good behavior both in and out of lessons.
The curriculum at Elm Hall Primary School is broad and well-structured, with a clear focus on essential knowledge and vocabulary in each subject. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that pupils have a secure understanding of key concepts before progressing to new material. This gap in assessment may hinder some pupils from achieving their full potential in certain subjects.
Reading is a strong focus at the school, with a well-implemented phonics scheme that is consistently followed by staff. Pupils receive regular checks on their progress, and additional support is provided swiftly when needed. The school fosters a love of reading through exposure to rich texts and various reading activities, encouraging pupils to aspire to read extensively.
In the early years, children benefit from carefully planned activities that engage and motivate them, allowing for a strong start to their education. The support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is commendable, with staff quickly identifying needs and providing appropriate assistance. This ensures that all pupils can access the curriculum and make progress.
The school’s commitment to personal development is evident through its enrichment days, which focus on key attitudes such as collaboration and respect. Pupils learn about prominent figures and their achievements, inspiring them to believe in their own potential. The school environment is positive for staff as well, with strong support for professional development and collaboration among teachers.
Parents appreciate the community feel of the school and the support they receive in their children's learning. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their well-being is prioritized.
While the school has many strengths, it is essential to address the areas where pupils may not be achieving as well as they could. By ensuring that teachers check pupils' understanding before moving on to new content, the school can enhance overall achievement across all subjects. The school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory and provide an excellent education for its pupils.
