Thorndon Church of England Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a school that requires improvement Pupils' achievement in key stage 2 has declined since the previous inspection.

The progress of current pupils is improving but it is not yet consistent. New senior leaders have secured vital improvements in the quality of teaching. However, some teachers do not use assessment well to meet the needs of pupils, especially those who are most able.

Pupils have a limited understanding of different cultures represented in modern Britain. In reading, teachers do not check that pupils read widely and develop a love of reading. Some teachers do not ensure that pupils use reasoning skills effectively to make stronger progress i...n mathematics.

Teaching assistants are not used consistently well to reinforce and extend pupils' learning during whole-class teaching. Some areas of the wider curriculum are not well developed for pupils to learn at sufficient depth, such as in history and geography. Parents' views of the school are mixed.

Some do not understand why recent changes have been made and how these benefit the pupils. The school has the following strengths The appointment of the new executive headteacher has brought a clear focus for improvement. Well-designed plans are having a positive impact on the quality of teaching.

New governors are ensuring that leaders are held to account for improving the school. Additional funding is used well to support the progress of disadvantaged pupils. Early years is well led.

The well-planned provision ensures that children get off to a flying start in their education. Pupils behave well. Staff are vigilant for pupils' well-being and safety.

Information about this school

The school is much smaller than the average-sized primary school. The executive headteacher was appointed in September 2017. At the same time, the school entered into an informal partnership with another local school where the executive headteacher fulfils a similar role.

Both schools retain separate governing bodies. There is one full-time newly qualified teacher. The proportion of disadvantaged pupils is below the national average.

The proportion of pupils with SEND is below the national average. The proportion of pupils who have an education, health and care plan is above the national average. Most pupils are of White British heritage.