St Mary the Virgin Church of England Primary School in Gillingham has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 2 and 3, 2023. The school fosters an environment where pupils are eager to learn, demonstrating ambition and a desire for challenges. The school's 'Great 8' attitudes to learning equip students with the skills necessary for effective learning. Pupils respond positively to the high expectations set by adults, engaging respectfully in discussions and contributing meaningfully. However, there are instances where lower expectations can lead to lapses in attention, impacting learning outcomes.
In the early years, children adapt well to routines, developing critical thinking and independence. Leadership roles within the school empower pupils, particularly in the development of a new behavior policy, which is supported by clear rewards and sanctions. The school promotes a culture of mutual support among pupils, contributing to a low incidence of bullying. Any inappropriate behavior is addressed promptly by staff, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment.
Pupils at St Mary’s develop a strong sense of citizenship, both locally and globally. They engage in community activities, such as singing at a local care home during Christmas, and are involved in sponsoring the education of children in other countries, demonstrating their commitment to making a positive impact.
The school has designed an ambitious curriculum that emphasizes the knowledge necessary for success in life. The curriculum is structured to celebrate diversity and challenge stereotypes, providing pupils with a comprehensive understanding of various subjects. Most subjects have well-sequenced knowledge and vocabulary progression from Nursery to Year 6, although some areas require further refinement to ensure consistency in implementation.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with early years pupils enjoying engaging with sounds, rhymes, and stories, which prepares them for phonics instruction. As pupils progress, they encounter increasingly complex texts, enhancing their reading fluency and comprehension across diverse genres. The teaching strategies employed are informed by effective assessment practices, allowing for tailored learning experiences that address individual pupil needs.
The school is particularly attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that their barriers to learning are accurately identified and addressed. This inclusive approach enables all pupils to thrive academically.
Staff at St Mary’s are dedicated to their professional development and possess strong subject knowledge. They collaborate effectively to implement teaching strategies that cater to the diverse needs of their pupils. The support from senior leaders and the trust contributes positively to staff well-being and workload management.
Safeguarding measures at the school are robust, with well-trained staff who are vigilant in identifying and reporting concerns. Pupils feel secure and are encouraged to communicate any worries to adults, fostering a culture of safety and trust.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school must ensure that the implementation of the curriculum is consistent across all areas, as variability can hinder pupil learning. By addressing this, St Mary the Virgin Church of England Primary School can continue to build on its strengths and provide an excellent educational experience for all its pupils.
