Northbourne Church of England Primary School, located in Deal, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 18, 2023. The school provides a nurturing environment where pupils feel happy and safe. The expansive outdoor spaces, including areas for tending to ponies and chickens, contribute to a unique learning experience. The forest school program helps pupils develop resilience and practical skills. High expectations for behavior are set by the staff, fostering positive relationships between pupils and adults. The school operates smoothly due to clear and consistent routines, promoting kindness and consideration among students. Older pupils demonstrate maturity by supporting younger peers during playtime, reinforcing the school's commitment to individual recognition.
The curriculum is engaging and encourages hard work, with pupils collaborating effectively and showing independence in their learning. Most pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve well across nearly all subjects. School leaders have thoughtfully designed the curriculum to accommodate mixed-age classes, setting ambitious goals such as teaching French from the start of key stage one. The curriculum is accessible to all pupils, with timely support for those with SEND needs. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in a few foundation subjects where the organization of learning is not as refined, leading to some lower-quality work.
Extra-curricular activities and wider opportunities are abundant, with pupils enjoying various languages, history trips, music performances, and well-attended after-school clubs, including sports and dance. The school emphasizes the importance of reading and mathematics, with strong phonics teaching in early years and clear explanations of mathematical concepts. Pupils develop confidence in these areas, with staff ensuring that reading materials align with the sounds learned.
Behavior at the school is exemplary, with pupils displaying politeness and courtesy. This positive behavior is established early on through consistent routines and supportive relationships. During lessons, pupils focus well, and disruption is rare. The school prioritizes personal development, teaching pupils about health, relationships, and respect for diversity. Pupils are encouraged to express their views and participate in decision-making, such as selecting charities for fundraising.
Staff at Northbourne Church of England Primary School are dedicated and motivated, striving to provide high-quality care and learning experiences. They appreciate the support from leaders regarding their well-being and professional development. Parents express overwhelming support for the school, highlighting its holistic and nurturing educational environment.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safety established. Staff are well-trained and confident in reporting concerns, ensuring that pupils receive the necessary support. The school teaches pupils about safety, including online dangers and local risks.
While the school has many strengths, it needs to refine the curriculum in certain foundation subjects to enhance precision and effectiveness. Additionally, assessment processes in some subjects require improvement to provide accurate information on pupils' learning. Leaders are aware of these areas and have plans in place to address them, ensuring that all pupils can achieve their full potential. Overall, Northbourne Church of England Primary School continues to provide a good education, fostering a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils.
