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Wrotham Road Primary School in Gravesend retains 'good' Ofsted rating

A large multicultural school where "excellently behaved" pupils are inspired by the stories of refugee classmates continues to perform well, the education watchdog says.

Wrotham Road Primary School in Gravesend has retained its rating as a "Good" school following a recent inspection.

Wrotham Primary School has retained its rating as a good school. Picture: Wrotham Primary School
Wrotham Primary School has retained its rating as a good school. Picture: Wrotham Primary School

The primary school, which is now part of the Pathway Academy Trust, was last inspected in July 2016 when it was also rated "Good'.

It now has 439 pupils on its roster and was re-inspected on October 5 and 6.

Ofsted inspector Deborah Gordon heaped praised on its current provision including student behaviour, safeguarding and the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.

The report said: "The school values of enjoyment, confidence, individuality, creativity and independence run like a thread through school life.

"This reflects pupils everyday experience and inspires them to aim high. They are instilled in children from the very start of their school journey in nursery or reception."

"Pupils are inspired by each other's stories, including those who came to the school as refugees."

Various aspects of the school's "vibrant" multi-cultural identity were also singled out for praise.

The inspector noted "pupils are proud of their vibrant, happy school" , "get on well together" and are "curious about the many different cultures and experiences within their diverse school community".

"They share their thoughts, take time to hear the views of others and value the kindness that is evident everywhere," she added.

"Pupils are inspired by each other's stories, including those who came to the school as refugee."

With regards to safeguarding, the inspector added that: "Pupils are taught how to keep themselves safe, including when online.

"They know what to do if they are worried about something and trust that adults will help.

"Staff know pupils very well. This helps ensure that any signs that something is wrong are quickly picked up and acted on."

The behaviour of pupils - both in and out the classroom - was praised by inspectors. Photo: Stock image
The behaviour of pupils - both in and out the classroom - was praised by inspectors. Photo: Stock image

The education watchdog also highlighted the high expectations school leaders have of pupils’ behaviour.

"Pupils behave very well in lessons. They work diligently alone or with others," the inspector said.

"They are confident to ask for help and to help others who may need it.

"Pupils’ excellent behaviour extends beyond the classroom as they move around the school and outside in the playground."

On what aspects the school has to improve on to bolster its rating, the inspector said: "In some subjects, leaders have not fully considered how the early years curriculum links to the key stage 1 curriculum.

"This means that pupils’ learning sometimes falters at the transition point.

Sarah Jack, Headteacher of Wrotham Primary School
Sarah Jack, Headteacher of Wrotham Primary School

"Leaders should ensure that the two curriculums are closely aligned to help pupils build on what they already know and can do as they move into year 1 and beyond."

Headteacher Mrs Sarah Jack said: "At our core, we are a community school and we strive to embrace every one of the backgrounds our children come from - to build relationships and develop their personal identities.

"Everyone at Wrotham Road Primary School is passionate about creating an outstanding school that our pupils and community so richly deserve.

"I am grateful to the staff, students and families who have been involved with us over the years."

She added: "We look forward to continuing this strong upward trajectory in the coming years.

"We remain committed to guiding all our students in fulfilling their potential and inspiring the wider community.

"This is a fantastic achievement for everyone connected to the school and is something to be immensely proud of."

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