Chartham Primary School, located in Canterbury, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on February 6 and 7, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Jamie Noble, the school is part of the Inspira Academy Trust, which oversees its operations through CEO Dean Jones and a board of trustees chaired by Richard Hover. The school fosters an inclusive environment where pupils demonstrate care and consideration for one another. They actively participate in a variety of games and activities during break times and strive to meet the school's expectations of respect, safety, and readiness for learning. The students engage in thoughtful discussions, appreciating the diversity within their school community, and feel confident that staff will address any concerns they may have.
The enthusiasm for learning is evident among pupils, who listen attentively and concentrate during lessons. They share ideas excitedly with peers and teachers, and students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve commendable results. The curriculum is designed to equip pupils with essential knowledge and skills, particularly in reading and mathematics, preparing them for future educational endeavors. Learning extends beyond the classroom, with pupils participating in road safety lessons, various trips, and forest school sessions that promote resilience and self-regulation.
The school has made significant strides in its curriculum, aiming to cultivate active citizens with a strong understanding of their role in the wider world. Recent curriculum reviews have led to improvements across various subjects, with a focus on building knowledge over time. In Reception Year, children quickly acquire crucial skills, such as number facts that facilitate access to the mathematics curriculum and the development of a rich vocabulary. Teachers are well-trained and possess strong subject knowledge, enabling them to deliver clear explanations and engaging activities. They effectively assess pupils' understanding and adapt lessons to meet individual needs, particularly in Reception Year. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that strategies for recalling prior learning are consistently implemented across all subjects.
Reading is a priority at Chartham Primary School, with staff providing effective phonics instruction. Pupils read regularly, and their books are carefully matched to their phonics knowledge, enhancing their fluency and enjoyment of reading. Despite this, some pupils with special educational needs may require more tailored support to catch up in their reading skills. The school encourages a love for reading through a reward program linked to reading accomplishments, motivating pupils to explore a wide range of literature.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with students adhering to school rules and routines. The school effectively supports those needing behavioral improvement, and attendance has steadily improved due to targeted interventions. Personal development is also prioritized, with pupils learning about online safety and important concepts such as relationships and consent. The school offers various extracurricular activities that allow pupils to showcase their talents and skills, including performances and sports.
Staff at Chartham Primary School report high levels of job satisfaction, feeling well-supported by leadership and benefiting from professional development opportunities. The governing body is actively engaged in the school's operations, holding leaders accountable for their performance. The school has established effective safeguarding arrangements, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Chartham Primary School continues to provide a good quality of education, with a commitment to ongoing improvement in teaching and learning practices.
