Etching Hill CofE Primary Academy, located in Rugeley, Staffordshire, has recently undergone an ungraded inspection on December 13 and 14, 2023. The outcome of this inspection confirms that the school maintains its overall judgement of good. However, the evidence gathered during the inspection suggests that the school may achieve an outstanding rating if a graded inspection were conducted at this time. The headteacher, Marie Smith, leads the school, which is part of the Future Generation Trust, overseen by CEO Stuart Ayres and a board of trustees chaired by Felicia Dale.
The school community, including pupils, staff, and parents, expresses a strong sense of pride in their school, describing it as a caring and happy environment where everyone is valued. Pupils demonstrate enthusiasm for their learning and are aware of the high expectations set for them. They rise to these expectations with confidence, motivated to succeed both during their time at the school and beyond. The school’s mission to ensure that pupils flourish and thrive translates into an engaging and purposeful learning experience. Pupils appreciate the support they receive for their academic and personal needs, understanding the importance of resilience and curiosity in their learning journey.
Etching Hill CofE Primary Academy encourages pupils to contribute positively to their community, fostering a sense of responsibility and care for others. The school promotes the idea that every individual should be valued for who they are, celebrating diversity within the school community. A variety of extracurricular activities, such as the STRIVE club, allow pupils to engage with their environment and develop a sense of stewardship. The positive atmosphere is evident as pupils express joy when discussing their experiences at school.
The leadership team, including governors and staff, collaborates effectively to provide an excellent education for all pupils. Subject leaders monitor the impact of learning sequences on pupil outcomes, ensuring that the curriculum is both inspiring and well-structured. Staff work together to support one another, fostering a culture of teamwork and continuous improvement. Governors maintain high expectations for school leaders, actively engaging with the school community to understand its operations and the effectiveness of improvement actions.
The curriculum at Etching Hill is designed to be engaging and well-aligned with pupils' needs. Staff utilize assessment information effectively to build on prior knowledge, ensuring that learning is connected across subjects. The school has successfully addressed learning gaps resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, preparing pupils for their future educational endeavors. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, with staff adapting teaching methods to ensure inclusivity.
Reading is a priority at the school, with a well-structured phonics program in place. Staff systematically assess pupils' phonetic knowledge and adapt their teaching strategies to meet the needs of current learners. This commitment to continuous improvement reflects the school’s dedication to prioritizing pupils' interests. By the time they leave, most pupils are confident readers, having engaged with high-quality texts that connect to other areas of the curriculum.
Pupils also benefit from a range of trips and visits that enhance their learning experiences, including visits to places of worship and residential trips that allow them to practice language skills. The school promotes pupils' wider development, encouraging them to take on leadership roles such as school councillors, which fosters a sense of agency and belonging. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all pupils. Overall, Etching Hill CofE Primary Academy exemplifies a strong educational institution committed to the growth and development of its pupils.
