East Hoathly CofE Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 13 June 2024

Pupils are excited by learning at East Hoathly Primary School. They participate in lessons enthusiastically and are keen to share their learning with staff. Pupils achieve well and work hard to meet the high expectations of staff. They demonstrate this through their positive attitudes to learning and high-quality work. Pupils are caring and respectful at this inclusive village school. They are kind to each other, and pupils of all ages play together happily. Pupils behave very well. They know the school's expectations and follow them consistently well. Pupils also know where to go if they require additional support to improve their behaviour. Pupils know that staff will keep them safe and all pupils benefit from support from trusted adults. Pupils learn a range of skills alongside the knowledge that they gain in class. They learn how to become effective speakers and listeners, and the importance of 'aiming high'. Staff value pupils' opinions and they are encouraged to participate in regular debates. For example, a group of pupils discussed the relationship between science and faith with the local priest. As a result of the school's 'courageous advocacy' approach, older pupils feel confident challenging injustice and have mature attitudes to views that differ to their own.

What the school should improve

• Some pupils who are weaker readers have not learned to read as quickly as they could because the phonics curriculum has not been embedded or implemented well enough in the past. The school is aware of this and has begun to make improvements in this area. Leaders should continue to embed the phonics curriculum and provide teachers with the support that they need to ensure that all pupils learn to read confidently and fluently.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)