Speldhurst Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is an outstanding school.

The achievement of pupils is outstanding. Pupils make consistently strong progress as they move through the school so that, by the end of Year 6, the proportion of pupils making at least good progress in reading, writing and mathematics is high. Teachers provide work that is not too easy or too hard for all pupils so that they learn exceptionally well.

The substantial proportion of teaching is outstanding. Pupils are fully engaged in improving their own work and have a clear understanding of how to become even more successful in their learning. Other adults within the classroom provide high-quality support and make an exceptional... contribution to pupils' progress.

Disabled pupils and those who have special educational needs make excellent progress because of the care and additional provision they receive. Pupils are safe and secure and their behaviour is outstanding both during lessons and around the school. They are welcoming and treat each other with respect.

Attendance is high. Pupils enjoy school and say they always feel safe because all staff are concerned for their welfare. Children in Reception make rapid gains in the qualities and skills that enable them to become successful learners as they enter Year 1.

The pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is promoted exceptionally well. Pupils participate in a range of events which enhance their respect of other cultures. The school fully involves parents and carers in their child's education and the very large majority say their child is happy at this school.

The headteacher has high ambitions for the school. Staff share in her expectation that every pupil should make the best possible progress regardless of their abilities and background. Leaders at all levels are exceptional.

The assistant headteacher and subject leaders have skills and qualities which ensure a rich learning experience is consistently enjoyed by all pupils across a range of subjects. Governors work very well with the school leaders. They have a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of the school and maintain a strong focus on how it may continue to improve.

Information about this school

This is a smaller than average-sized primary school. Year 6 pupils are taught as one group. All other pupils are taught in mixed-age classes: Reception and Year 1; Years 2 and 3; and Years 4 and 5.

The large majority of pupils are of White British background. The proportion of pupils receiving support from the pupil premium funding, which is the extra government support for pupils known to be eligible for free school meals, looked after children and those from service families, is well below average. In this school, it relates to pupils who are known to qualify for free school meals.

When compared to national figures, the proportion of disabled pupils and those who have special educational needs at school action is average; the proportion of pupils at school action or who have a statement of special educational needs is below average. The school meets the government's current floor standards, which set the minimum expectations for attainment and progress in reading, writing and mathematics. The school has been acknowledged by the Department for Education as being among the top 250 schools nationally in terms of the progress pupils make in Key Stage 2.