Little Thurrock Primary School, located in Grays, Essex, has recently undergone an inspection on November 21 and 22, 2023, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school is part of the Osborne Cooperative Academy Trust, which provides additional oversight and support. The headteacher, Ian Broyd, has been in position since September 2022, and the school has not been previously inspected under section five of the Education Act 2005.
The school is well-integrated into the local community, with pupils expressing enjoyment in attending school to see their friends. The relationships between pupils and staff are strong, fostering an environment where students feel safe and respected. Pupils demonstrate good behaviour and are focused on their learning, showing a desire to succeed and meet the high expectations set by their teachers. They actively participate in class discussions and support one another in their educational pursuits. However, there are some subjects where pupils do not achieve as well due to less effective learning activities.
Pupils engage in community service, raising funds for charities and contributing to local food banks. They also participate in various extracurricular activities, including workshops, trips, and performances, which enhance their learning experiences and create lasting memories. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to build on their knowledge from early years through to later stages. Nonetheless, there are instances where teachers do not select the most suitable activities for the intended learning outcomes, which can hinder pupil progress.
The school effectively identifies pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), ensuring they receive appropriate support. Many of these pupils are able to access the same learning as their peers due to careful adaptations made by the school. Staff are trained to provide the necessary support, enabling pupils with SEND to make progress across the curriculum.
Reading is a strong focus at Little Thurrock Primary School, with pupils starting phonics as soon as they join. Staff are well-trained to support reading development, and pupils enjoy reading both at school and at home. They appreciate the calming nature of reading and often engage in shared reading experiences.
Behaviour around the school is commendable, with pupils demonstrating consideration for others. The implementation of a new behaviour policy has clarified expectations and management strategies for staff. The school also prioritizes teaching pupils about acceptance and equality, supported by an assembly programme that covers various important topics.
Despite the positive aspects, the school has identified areas for improvement. There is inconsistency in the delivery and assessment of learning in some foundation subjects, which can affect pupil retention of knowledge. The school aims to ensure that teachers select effective activities aligned with the curriculum and that learning is assessed as intended.
Overall, Little Thurrock Primary School has made significant progress since its previous inspection and continues to foster a supportive and effective learning environment for its pupils. The school community, including staff and leaders, is committed to ongoing improvement and the well-being of its students.
