Kingsdown and Ringwould Church of England Primary School, located in Deal, Kent, has recently undergone an inspection by Ofsted, which took place on May 24 and 25, 2023. The school has received an outstanding rating across all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This marks a significant achievement for the school, which had not been previously inspected under section five of the Education Act 2005.
The school is characterized by a highly ambitious and nurturing environment where pupils thrive. Their enthusiasm for learning is palpable, and the small school community fosters a sense of belonging and inclusivity. Parents express strong support for the school, often describing it as a family-like atmosphere where children can interact freely. The leadership team sets high expectations for both academic and personal development, and pupils respond positively, demonstrating exemplary behavior and a strong commitment to their learning.
Pupils feel safe and well-cared for, thanks to the supportive and encouraging staff. The school has a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying, and students have confidence in the staff to address any issues that may arise. This supportive culture is appreciated by parents, who note the school’s commitment to accommodating individual needs rather than expecting children to conform to a standard.
The leadership team, including governors, is dedicated to providing the best possible education for all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs. Staff are proactive in identifying these pupils and ensuring they receive the necessary support to access the full curriculum. The curriculum itself is well-designed and rich, with clear expectations for the skills and knowledge pupils should acquire. In the early years, activities are organized to promote curiosity and independence, leading to rapid progress for children.
Professional development for staff is a priority, with leaders providing high-quality training and support. This investment in staff development ensures that teachers have the expertise needed to deliver effective instruction. Regular assessments of pupils’ understanding allow teachers to adapt their teaching methods to meet individual needs, ensuring that no student falls behind.
Reading is emphasized throughout the school, with a consistent approach to phonics instruction. Pupils quickly learn the necessary skills to become confident readers, and the school promotes a love of reading from an early age. Older students continue to develop their reading skills, discussing their favorite authors and books, which enhances their engagement with literature.
The personal development curriculum is highly effective, promoting pupils’ well-being and character development. A wide range of extracurricular activities is available, allowing students to take on various responsibilities and contribute to the school community. Pupils demonstrate respect and understanding for others, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs, and they develop maturity and responsibility in managing their conduct.
Staff morale is high, with a positive culture of teamwork and collaboration. Leaders are attentive to staff well-being and workload, fostering an environment where teachers feel valued. The local governing board is actively involved in the school’s strategic leadership, ensuring that it meets its responsibilities effectively.
The school has established a strong culture of safeguarding, with effective processes in place to protect pupils. Staff are well-trained to recognize signs of risk and provide timely support to those in need. Pupils learn about safety through the curriculum and feel confident approaching trusted adults with concerns.
Overall, Kingsdown and Ringwould Church of England Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, providing a supportive and enriching environment for all its pupils.
