Hartest Church of England Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 5 March 2024

Pupils attend a small school that sees itself as a big family. They feel safe, seeing how staff spot and swiftly solve issues with them. Many pupils trust that kind behaviour is the norm in their school. Such kindness means pupils feel comfortable being themselves. This puts pupils in a positive state of mind from which to listen and learn. Close ties with the pre-school on site mean pupils typically flourish from the moment they start the Reception Year. The progress they make academically and personally is strong. It shows in younger pupils readily reading the books they receive, wanting to succeed in the school's 'reading challenge'. Older pupils expertly explain what they learn, particularly in geography. For example, pupils recall facts about the longest river in the world or what constitutes a dormant volcano. Generous patrons, including the parish council, add to pupils' learning and play resources. Pupils access some of these, such as the trim trail, outside the school day. There are cross-school activities too with the other primary school which leaders oversee. Having adults who foster opportunities for pupils to socialise ensures pupils become confident, happy and polite individuals.

What the school should improve

• A few staff are still getting to grips with recent staff training about how best to routinely check pupils' understanding to inform teaching. As a result, there are occasions where staff skim over pupils' mistakes or pose confusing questions. Leaders should continue their work to revisit and monitor the training staff received, providing suitable support to those few staff who need it.
• Persistent absenteeism for disadvantaged pupils is higher than the school would like. Time away from school leads to gaps in pupils' knowledge. This stops them from achieving their very best which also affects their well-being. The trust and school should consider how best to enhance current policy and procedure. Doing so will ensure all pupils benefit from what the school offers through regular school attendance.

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