Mayplace Achieves Centre of Excellence Status

September 23, 2020

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Mayplace Primary School in Bexley has achieved Centre of Excellence status.

Improving Outcomes for Pupils

The Leaders of Mayplace Primary School are committed to continually drive the school forward to improve the outcomes for the pupils. This was evident from the discussion with the Head, Deputy Head and Lead Teacher for the Resource Provision. They discussed their own learning journeys which clearly shows the determination and the high expectations they have of themselves. Their journeys are an inspiration for others to continually improve their own professional skills to produce better outcomes for the pupils.

Clear Structures and Processes

Clear structures and processes have been embedded since the Head was appointed, ably supported by the current Deputy. This means that all staff have clear direction and understand the expectations. There is a collaborative feel with everyone contributing to the vision and strategic direction of the school.

Developing Outdoor Learning

The new development of outdoor learning gives the staff the opportunity to be creative in delivering the core curriculum as well as the foundation subjects through topic work. The expansion of the school to a three-form entry will also enrich the community and offer new opportunities and challenges that the leaders are looking forward to.

A Clear Vision

The leaders are clear about the vision and next steps for the school. They have excellent reflective skills in their leadership wanting the best outcome for all pupils whatever their individual need.

Supporting during COVID-19

All staff are included and buy into the vision. The values of ‘Team, Belonging, Leading Learning, Love of Learning’ shine through with the school motto ‘Igniting the Spark of Learning’. They are at the heart of the school. Even during COVID-19 lockdown, the staff were ‘igniting a spark of learning’ through their fun videos including singing and participating in activities to enthuse the pupils. Constant communication with all pupils ensures that pupils understand how much the staff valued and miss teaching them in person. Through online platforms as well as home delivered packs of learning, the pupils are still engaging in education. The staff are checking understanding and offering constructive feedback to keep the ‘spark of learning ignited’ for all pupils.

Diversity and Inclusion

The success of the Resource Provision brings diversity and inclusion to the forefront. It supports the development of all pupils with additional needs as well as other pupils. Pupils develop skills of empathy and understanding as well as acceptance that diversity creates positivity and is to be celebrated in an environment where everyone can support and nurture each other.

Innovative and Creative Curriculum

The teachers also promote inclusion within all classes. The structure of support for all pupils has been carefully mapped out with excellent use of LSAs as well as the development of expertise amongst them. Support by leaders for the teachers means that they feel confident to take risks and plan an innovative and creative curriculum that has been carefully designed. It builds upon pupils’ previous knowledge, skills and understanding as well as identifying the pupils’ gaps in their learning. This means that all pupils are catered for so that they become confident and enjoy learning.

Passion and Purpose

It was a pleasure to witness leaders’ passion and sense of purpose. Their resilience, resourcefulness and reflectiveness support and ignites ‘the spark of learning’ within an inclusive school community.

A Wonderful Environment

It was clear from the visit how hard everyone has worked to create such a wonderful environment.

Happy and Engaged in Learning

The pupils are all extremely happy and engaged in learning. Their comments about the school and the teachers reflected their love of the school. It was a pleasure to witness so many pupils from all age groups present, this was due to the positive relationships created between home and school. Parents clearly have trust in the school and the strong leadership.

An Inclusive Environment

The structures for online learning and the support for the pupils and their families leaves ‘no stone unturned’. This is clear from the parents’ emails of appreciation and praise. Thank you for organising the team meeting with Vicky (Parent Governor) who had nothing but praise for the inclusive environment the school offers.

ASD Provision

Inclusion was reinforced during the learning walk. It was clear to see how the ASD Provision is very much part of the school. Leaders encourage pupils within the provision to integrate with the rest of the pupils at every opportunity that is seen to be appropriate and purposeful.

Working Collaboratively Together

The leaders have developed a wonderful SMLT. Members of the SMLT all have different expertise and skills to share, they work collaboratively together and feel fully supported by the Head and the SLT.

Creating Positive Outcomes

The Teaching Assistants were extremely praiseworthy of the SLT and the opportunities they have to develop their own career paths to create positive outcomes for all pupils.

The Family Liaison Officer was highly knowledgeable about the emotional needs of the whole community. Her passion came across as well as her love for the role.

A Positive Direction

The Head has steered the school in such a positive direction at this exciting time of expansion. The whole environment including the wonderful displays, the organisation of the classrooms as well as the structure of the outdoor space is commendable.

A Reflective and Developing School

It is clear that leadership qualities of the SLT have played a major role in creating such a reflective and continually developing school. Thank you for a most informative and well organised visit.

Find out more about the IQM Inclusive School Award

If your school is interested in obtaining the IQM Inclusive School Award or you wish to talk to a member of the IQM team please telephone:

028 7127 7857 (9.00 am to 5.00 pm)
or email: info@iqmaward.com for further details.

Want more information on the IQM Award? Click here to request your free IQM information pack.