Deal Parochial Church of England Primary School, located in Walmer, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 27 and 28, 2023. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community and care, with leaders, staff, parents, and carers collaborating effectively to create a supportive environment. Pupils feel valued and are eager to meet the high expectations set by their teachers, demonstrating a commitment to their learning and personal development.
The behavior of pupils is commendable, as they take responsibility for maintaining a harmonious school environment. They are equipped with conflict resolution skills, such as engaging in 'mending conversations' to resolve disagreements independently. This sense of ownership fosters a positive atmosphere where pupils thrive. Additionally, the school offers a range of extracurricular activities that enhance pupils' development beyond the classroom, including tennis lessons, STEM opportunities, and engaging performances from professionals in various fields.
The curriculum is well-structured, with leaders carefully mapping out the skills and knowledge required for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This planning begins in the early years and continues throughout the school, ensuring a cohesive learning experience. While pupils generally demonstrate confidence in discussing their learning, there are instances where they struggle to connect new knowledge with prior learning, indicating a need for improvement in long-term retention strategies. Leaders are aware of this challenge and are actively trialing methods to reinforce key concepts.
Teachers exhibit enthusiasm for learning and employ effective questioning techniques to ensure pupils understand the material. In subjects like mathematics, common misconceptions are addressed promptly, helping pupils solidify their understanding. Early reading instruction is particularly strong, with staff skilled in phonics and providing additional support for those who need it. The supportive relationships between staff and pupils contribute to a resilient learning environment where pupils are encouraged to persevere through challenges.
In the early years, positive interactions between adults and children foster confidence and articulate communication. Children enjoy their learning experiences and can articulate their understanding of various concepts, such as the factors influencing plant growth. Across the school, pupils engage deeply with their learning, asking thoughtful questions and demonstrating a keen interest in sharing their knowledge.
Leaders are dedicated to ensuring that all pupils thrive, knowing them well and providing tailored support to meet their individual needs. This includes catch-up sessions for reading and personalized approaches for pupils with more significant challenges. The school continually reflects on its practices and collaborates with external services to enhance its support systems.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with a clear culture of safety embedded within the school. Staff are trained to identify and report concerns, and leaders maintain detailed records to monitor pupil welfare. The school conducts appropriate checks to ensure the safety of all adults working with children, and governors actively hold leaders accountable for safeguarding practices.
While the school has many strengths, it recognizes the need to develop a systematic approach to help pupils retain their learning over time. Leaders are committed to refining their strategies to enhance pupils' ability to connect and remember their learning in the long term. Overall, Deal Parochial Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils, fostering a strong sense of community and commitment to learning.
