At the centre of our community since 1914, Aveley Primary is a two-form entry school for children aged 3-11. Aveley has changed over time from a small village to a larger thriving community. The school has been on its own journey of improvement since joining Catalyst Academies Trust in February 2019 and achievements were recognised when the school was judged as ‘GOOD’ (Ofsted, 2023)
Aveley Primary and the trust’s vision are closely aligned, sharing high expectations for achievement with excellent teaching and learning, enabling children to flourish. Staff are determined that children will achieve their full potential, whatever their starting points. Sitting at the heart of the school vision is the pledge to develop ‘whole people’, whose wellbeing is a priority, so they not only achieve well but are socially and emotionally well-rounded.
‘Pupils are clear about the high expectations adults have for behaviour and learning. Pupils live up to these expectations well and try hard to achieve their best.’ (Ofsted 2023)
Every person feels valued, respected, listened to and is an active member of Team Aveley. All here are encouraged, and feel safe, to take risks which impact positively on their learning and sense of self. Each member of the school community is responsible for upholding consistently high expectations, ensuring the very best opportunities, outcomes, knowledge and skills for a successful future.
Benefitting from the collaborative working nature of the trust to secure improvement, end of Key Stage 2 outcomes have increased year on year. In 2024, outcomes were significantly above the national average across all measures by the end of Key Stage 2, where 85% of children achieved the expected standard in Reading, Writing and Maths. In addition to the school improvement work, children benefit from many events when competing for the Catalyst Cup.
Our school is spacious, with expansive grounds. There are three playgrounds, a large field and a multi-use games area. We have a dedicated library, art, design & technology room, a wildlife area and pond. Our grounds include a library bus, which is an iconic part of the school, outdoor gym and climbing equipment that have proved incredibly popular with the children.
Staff work collaboratively to enable children’s aspirations to become a reality. Our effective curriculum was created to be engaging, relevant and shaped to give our children the experiences they need to succeed. Enrichment experiences, such as school trips and visitors, are an essential part of the learning journey children experience. We understand the importance of these real-life experiences and the impact these have on children’s learning and wider development.
‘I think that teachers are very good. They are patient and like their job which makes them perfect people to teach my son.’ (Reception parent)
Positive strategies are adopted to enable children to manage their behaviour. Staff are skilled professionals who support children to learn to socialise, engage and regulate their emotions appropriately. Positive relationships with children are the key to our success in this endeavour and result in pupils developing into people who are independent, confident and successful.
Aveley Primary is highly regarded for its work in supporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Children at the school get an offer of tailored support and targeted teaching to allow them to achieve well.
‘Leaders are equally ambitious for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Pupils with SEND enjoy the same learning opportunities as other pupils. They work independently alongside their friends in most lessons.' (Ofsted, 2023)
Aveley Resource Centre (ARC) provides specialist support and facilities for children with an Education, Health Care Plan and a diagnosis of Autism or social communication needs.
‘Pupils in the school’s autistic resource centre (ARC) receive expert support. This helps pupils successfully work towards their individual targets.’ (Ofsted 2023)
Aveley Primary’s values are Respect, Positivity and Responsibility. Ensuring that all children have a learning experience that is positive, encourages children to achieve and develop as well-rounded individuals. Primary years spent at Aveley Primary enable children to leave confident, responsible young people who have all the skills and positive attitudes to achieve their aspirations.
‘I always feel my child is safe, happy and making good progress.’ (Year 2 parent)
