Tolleshunt D’Arcy St Nicholas Primary Academy has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 14, 2024. The head of school, Emma Reece, leads the institution, which is part of the Canonium Learning Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Lois Osborne and a board of trustees chaired by Andy Hayman. The school has experienced several changes recently, including raised expectations for academic achievement and a focus on an ambitious curriculum that engages pupils in their learning.
Pupils at the school are reported to be happy and attend regularly, thriving in a calm and purposeful environment. Staff members are attentive to the needs of the students, fostering a sense of safety and trust. The school promotes a culture of respect and attentiveness, with pupils actively participating in lessons and adhering to the school's learning code of ready, respectful, safe. Playtimes are described as enjoyable, and students are well-informed about online and community safety.
The school offers a variety of after-school clubs, including science, netball, and baking, encouraging pupils to share their achievements during weekly celebration assemblies. Leadership opportunities are available for students, such as house captains, who contribute positively to school life. Parents express satisfaction with the school, appreciating the higher expectations and noting their children's enthusiasm for learning.
The curriculum at Tolleshunt D’Arcy St Nicholas Primary Academy is broad and ambitious, designed to build on learning from Reception through Year 6. Teachers receive regular coaching and training, enhancing their ability to deliver lessons effectively. Frequent assessments allow teachers to adapt their plans and provide necessary support to ensure all pupils keep up with their learning. However, some recent staffing changes have highlighted the need for ongoing training for new staff in certain subjects to maintain consistency in curriculum delivery.
Reading is a significant focus within the school, with staff selecting high-quality literature to foster a love of reading among pupils. Author visits and daily reading sessions inspire students to explore various texts. The revised phonics teaching approach has proven effective, with pupils engaging fully in lessons and developing their reading skills from an early age. However, there are instances where staff may inadvertently confuse pupils by suggesting guessing strategies instead of encouraging phonics-based reading, which can hinder fluency development.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are well-supported, with their needs accurately identified and addressed in lessons. The school has made strides in improving behavior, with most pupils demonstrating positive conduct during lessons and social interactions. Occasionally, some students may not engage fully, but teachers address these issues appropriately to foster a more positive learning environment.
The school community is proud of its Christian values and maintains strong ties with the local church. Pupils learn about various religions and cultures, promoting tolerance and respect. Governors and trust leaders are actively involved in the school's operations, holding leaders accountable and ensuring staff well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Areas for improvement include refining reading strategies to enhance fluency and ensuring consistent delivery of the curriculum across all subjects. Overall, Tolleshunt D’Arcy St Nicholas Primary Academy continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
