St Michael’s Church of England Infant School Maidstone

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is an outstanding school. St Michael's is a happy school where pupils make excellent progress, love learning and care for each other.

As one pupil said, 'If I could change one thing about the school, it would be that I could live here.' Colourful displays are everywhere around the school, celebrating pupils' work and encouraging pupils to do their best. Achievement is outstanding because, from starting points that are often below or well below those typical for their age, pupils reach well above average attainment by the end of Year 2 in reading and mathematics and above average attainment in writing.

Hard-working teachers make sure that all lessons are l...ively and fun so that pupils want to learn. Teaching is typically outstanding because teachers plan carefully to help every pupil succeed. Pupils behave extremely well in lessons and around the school.

They are friendly, have excellent manners and are polite and respectful to adults and each other. Safety is a high priority at the school and, as a result, pupils feel very safe. Their parents and carers agree that their children are looked after exceptionally well.

The inspirational executive headteacher has been the driving force behind maintaining the very high expectations that the school has for all pupils. She is very well supported by the excellent leadership of the head of school. Together with strong subject leaders, other managers and governors, they have made sure that the school has continued to improve since the previous inspection whilst maintaining outstanding teaching and achievement.

Governors provide excellent support and challenge to the school. They make frequent visits to check how well the school is doing.

Information about this school

St Michael's is a small infant school with more boys than girls.

There are four classes, some of which are taught in mixed age groups. The proportion of pupils who are eligible for pupil premium funding (additional government funding for pupils who are eligible for free school meals, pupils from service families and those in care) is lower than the national average. The proportion of disabled pupils and those who have special educational needs who are supported by school action is slightly higher than seen nationally.

The proportion who have a statement of special education needs is lower than average. Most pupils are White British. Approximately one fifth of pupils are from minority ethnic backgrounds, predominantly mixed heritage.

The proportion of pupils who speak English as an additional language is just above the national average. The school is federated with St Michael's Church of England Junior School and the Executive Headteacher leads both schools. She is also Executive Headteacher of The Archbishop Courtney Primary School, Maidstone.

She is a National Leader of Education. The school runs a daily breakfast club and after-school clubs, run by an external provider. The school has a number of awards including Artsmark Gold.

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