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The Discovery School in Kings Hill, West Malling, maintains ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating

A primary school celebrating its 20th anniversary has received an ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted report.

The Discovery School in Kings Hill, West Malling, received the rating after an inspection on February 21.

The Discovery School in Kings Hill, West Malling, has maintained its 'Outstanding' rating. Picture: The Discovery School
The Discovery School in Kings Hill, West Malling, has maintained its 'Outstanding' rating. Picture: The Discovery School

The report praised the school as “highly ambitious, vibrant and inclusive”, with one pupil describing it as a “privilege” to attend the school.

It also said pupils “engage with enthusiasm in their learning and achieve exceptionally well”, beginning in the early years.

‘Daily challenges’ set by the teachers teach the children to take risks, and adults “provide thoughtful support and guidance that helps pupils develop into responsible, articulate and impressive young people”.

The report added that bullying is rare at the school and leaders are “quick to act on any incidents of unkindness” to resolve issues swiftly.

It continued: “Staff know the individual needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).”

“Staff are thrilled that we have encapsulated the motto of our school – ‘be the best you can be’”

The report added leaders use “high-quality texts throughout the curriculum, including the early years”, and that early reading is taught “expertly”, with a precise understanding of the needs of less fluent readers.

The inspection found: “Pupils have extremely positive attitudes toward their learning.

“Routines are quickly established in the early years. Children learn to share equipment and work cooperatively with their friends.

“Across the school, pupils see the long-term value in learning and are aspirational. As one pupil explained, his learning in mathematics will help him achieve his goal of becoming an architect.”

Pupils were said to have a “strong appreciation for equality”, with a diversity group working with leaders to challenge stereotypes.

The report praised the school as “highly ambitious, vibrant and inclusive”. Picture: The Discovery School
The report praised the school as “highly ambitious, vibrant and inclusive”. Picture: The Discovery School

Pupils learn about diverse global communities through partnerships with different schools around the world, interacting with and learning from pupils in Kenya and Devon.

The children are taught how to stay safe, including online by managing screen time and tackling online bullying, and reporting concerns to trusted adults.

All staff were said to know exactly what to do if they have a concern about a pupil, and leaders keep “meticulous” records to act when they need to.

Headteacher Tina Gobell said: “Staff are thrilled that we have encapsulated the motto of our school – ‘be the best you can be’.

“The inspectors highlighted that our children ‘are unanimous in their praise, with one pupil describing it as a privilege to attend this school’. This is what we strive for every day.

“The school is immensely proud of its staff and children.

“This validation of the school’s exceptional work is a reflection of its daily commitment in ensuring that The Discovery School is ‘the best that it can be’ and staff will continue to create ‘a safe and loving space for the children to learn and grow’.”

Staff and children are now busily preparing for the school’s 20th anniversary, which will be celebrated in September.

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