Lady Boswell’s Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School, Sevenoaks

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

Pupils who attend Lady Boswell's are rightly proud of this exceptional school. Parents describe the school as 'kind, nurturing and caring' and as 'a place where teachers unlock motivation to learn'. Pupils demonstrate that Christian values are at the heart of the school when they say that everyone is equal and treated in the same way.

Pupils are extremely trusting of the staff, who they say are excellent role models.

Pupils thrive at this school. They enjoy learning and know the importance of concentrating in lessons.

For example, pupils in Reception focus on story time although they are excited to take part in celebrations for the Queen's Jubilee.There is a ...calm and purposeful atmosphere in all classrooms and around the school.

Pupils want what is best for each other and are supportive when another pupil needs help.

Ofsted's surveys, and discussions with pupils, show that bullying is very rare. Pupils know that adults will sort out any concerns quickly.

Pupils learn an exciting range of subjects through a well-sequenced curriculum.

For example, all pupils, including those in Reception, learn French every day. The curriculum prepares all pupils very well for the next stage of their learning.

Leaders are committed to developing pupils' character, and plan many opportunities for them to be good citizens and leaders, for example as subject ambassadors.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

The curriculum is ambitious for all pupils, often exceeding the expectations of the national curriculum. Leaders identify key knowledge and vocabulary that pupils must learn in each subject. Curriculum plans show how knowledge will be revisited over time so that learning 'sticks'.

Teachers provide opportunities for pupils to apply previous learning to more difficult ideas. Teachers use assessment effectively to identify gaps, and change plans to revisit learning if necessary.

Pupils in all phases demonstrate that they know and remember more.

For example, Year 1 pupils apply their understanding of homophones to explain the different spellings of 'white' and the Isle of 'Wight'. Pupils in Year 4 describe, with accuracy, the methods they will use to solve mathematical problems. Year 5 pupils know how their knowledge of forces in physics will prepare them for a career in roller coaster design.

The curriculum is equally ambitious for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). They are supported by well-trained staff to access the same curriculum as their peers.

Children in the early years benefit from a well-organised environment that develops language and curiosity.

Children feel safe because they share positive and caring relationships with staff who know them well. Children in Reception make good progress when teachers direct them in their learning. New leaders in the early years are working to develop the curriculum further and to ensure that children make the most of their learning when they choose activities themselves.

Reading is enjoyed by pupils in all phases. Leaders have trained staff so that they are experts in teaching phonics. All pupils, including those with SEND, receive high-quality phonics teaching.

As a result, pupils quickly become fluent readers, who go on to read challenging and wide-ranging texts at key stage 2. Adult volunteers are available, every day, to support those who find reading more difficult.

Staff have high expectations of pupils, who are polite, thoughtful and respectful.

Pupils regulate their own behaviour without adult intervention. They support each other by working as peer mediators when disagreements occur. Routines are extremely well embedded across the school.

Colourful displays celebrate pupils' many successes in writing and art, for example.

A well-sequenced personal, social and health education programme allows pupils to learn about issues in line with the values of the Church. Pupils are well prepared for life in modern Britain.

For example, they learn how to manage healthy relationships in an age-appropriate way. The curriculum and assemblies ensure that pupils understand and practise tolerance and respect. This is proven by the warm welcome new pupils from Ukraine received.

Pupils benefit from a wealth of opportunities to develop their talents and interests, choosing from as many as 40 clubs each term. Many pupils, including those who are disadvantaged and those with SEND, participate in multiple clubs. Pupils enjoy trips to enrich their curriculum, such as a Year 2 science visit to Howletts Wildlife Park.

Staff are overwhelmingly supportive of school leaders, who they say are mindful of their workload. Staff receive high-quality training so that they develop the skills they need to do their jobs very well. The governing body and leaders work together to ensure that the school remains an exceptional place to learn.

Parents, particularly those who have children with SEND, are keen to show their full support for leaders.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

Leaders plan frequent opportunities to reinforce and update safeguarding training.

All staff know their responsibilities for safeguarding and have confidence in leaders to manage safeguarding concerns appropriately. Records show that leaders take appropriate actions to keep pupils safe, for example seeking advice from the local authority when needed. Leaders work alongside external agencies to ensure that families get the help they need.

Pupils say that they feel safe in school. They learn how to keep themselves safe through the school's curriculum. For example, they talk in depth about how they use the internet safely.