Rudham CofE Primary Academy

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school. The achievement of pupils is good, especially in reading and writing. The achievement of children in the Early Years Foundation stage is good, especially in reading.

Teachers know the pupils well and use the information they have on what pupils know and can do to set work that enables them to make good progress in their learning. Teaching assistants have good subject knowledge and use this effectively to support pupils with their learning. The school is well led by the headteacher.

She has had a positive impact on improving the teaching of mathematics and in making sure that subject leaders monitor the work of teachers. Pupils are well b...ehaved and show respect for one another and adults. They enjoy the opportunities for leadership provided for them by the school.

Pupils have a positive attitude to learning and take pride in their work. The school keeps pupils safe. Attendance is above average.

Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development within the school is strong. Governors know the school well. They provide strong leadership and share the headteacher's determination to raise achievement.

They have a good understanding, through their monitoring, of what the school does well and what needs to be improved. It is not yet an outstanding school because : Achievement in mathematics is weaker than that in reading and writing. The school has taken action to improve arithmetic but pupils do not have enough opportunities to practise these skills to solve real-life problems.

Teachers do not make sure that pupils follow the advice they give them when they mark their work. Pupils, especially higher ability pupils, do not get enough chances to practise and refine their mathematical skills in other areas of learning.

Information about this school

The school is much smaller than the average-sized primary school.

Almost all pupils are White British. Pupils from Reception to Year 6 are taught in three mixed-age classes. Very few pupils are supported by the pupil premium.

The pupil premium is additional funding for those pupils known to be eligible for free school meals and children who are looked after by the local authority. The proportion of pupils supported at school action is in line with the national average, the proportion supported at school action plus or with a statement of special educational needs is above with the national average. There were too few pupils in Year 6 in 2013 for the government's floor standards to be applicable.

Since the previous inspection, the school has entered into a federation with another local primary school. There have been several staffing changes, including a new headteacher, who is executive headteacher of both schools. Subject leaders for mathematics and English have also been appointed.