Leigh Academy Horsmonden

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 18 October 2023

Pupils thrive at Horsmonden Primary academy. A clear set of learning attributes help pupils recognise what they need to do to be successful. The highly prized 'Horsmonden Heroes' awards motivate pupils and identify when these behaviours are demonstrated. This includes being 'principled', which one pupil explained as 'doing the right thing because it is the right thing'. This exceptionally well-developed aspect of the schools' work helps develop pupils' character. A culture of personal growth permeates and supports all aspects of school life. Pupils feel safe at school. They know that adults will help to keep them safe. Relationships throughout the school are good natured and warm. Any problems pupils have are quickly resolved. The school provides effective support that helps pupils to attend regularly. Any barriers that may prevent pupils from attending school are successfully removed to ensure pupils do not miss out on important learning. Pupils are kind to each other. Right from the start in Reception and across the school, they work and play well together. Outside, pupils enjoy using the well- resourced play areas and supporting each other to learn games. Pupils also benefit from a wide range of additional activities to develop their interests and talents. This includes growing plants in the school's polytunnel.

What the school should improve

• In some of the foundation subjects, there are gaps in pupils' prior knowledge. Sometimes they have insufficient understanding of some of the key knowledge. They, therefore, find it more difficult to make connections to new learning. The school should continue to support teachers in adapting the curriculum to help pupils deepen their knowledge and skills across the whole curriculum.

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