Catalyst Academies Trust
Somers Heath Primary
Overview
Somers Heath Primary is a welcoming, inclusive school for children aged 3-11, serving the South Ockendon community. The school offers a supportive and nurturing environment where pupils are encouraged to achieve their personal best.
In 2017, Somers Heath joined Catalyst Academies Trust, working in close partnership with other trust schools to drive improvement. The first Ofsted inspection following this partnership, in December 2021, rated the school ‘Good’, recognising the excellent behaviour of pupils and the strong collaboration with the trust.
Since then, the school has invested in its facilities, with a full refurbishment creating bright, modern classrooms and spacious learning environments. The large site includes outdoor spaces for sports and nature-based learning, alongside a MUGA pitch that supports all-weather activities.
Raising Standards with Catalyst Support
Challenge:
Before joining Catalyst Academies Trust, the school aimed to further strengthen academic performance, enrich the curriculum, and enhance facilities to provide the best opportunities for pupils.
Solution:
Through trust-wide collaboration, Somers Heath embedded a knowledge-rich curriculum, strengthened teaching quality, and developed a ‘can do’ culture among pupils and staff. Regular trust-wide moderation ensured consistently high standards, while investment in digital technology prepared pupils for the next stage of learning.
Results and impact:
- Ofsted rating: Achieved Good status in 2021.
- Academic performance: Rising attainment in Reading, Writing, and Maths, supported by quality-first teaching and data-led interventions.
- SEND provision: Improved targeted support for individual needs, with strong collaboration between teachers, support staff, and families.
- Enrichment: Wide range of sports, arts, and extracurricular opportunities, including participation in trust-wide competitions.
Parent feedback reflects this impact:
“I like how they deliver education to my child - I can see a real difference in her knowledge since starting at Somers Heath.” (Year 1 parent)
‘I am so happy that I chose Somers Heath for my children. The staff are always extremely helpful and my children enjoy coming here.’ (Year 2 parent)
“I love Somers Heath, I think it is a fantastic school and I’m proud of what my children have achieved and they are happy to come to school every day.” (Year 6 parent)
Driving Change at Somers Heath Primary
Catalyst Academies Trust’s support for Somers Heath has included:
- Leadership coaching and collaboration across trust schools.
- A broad, knowledge-rich curriculum with high expectations for all pupils.
- Technology integration to prepare pupils for secondary school and beyond.
- Enhanced PE provision, including two specialist PE coaches delivering three high-quality sessions per week.
- Active participation in interschool competitions across Thurrock and the trust.
- Access to in-house pastoral support, including counselling and play therapy where appropriate.
Standout Leaders and Staff Expertise
Martin Curtis - Head of School
Martin led Somers Heath Primary to its ‘Good’ Ofsted rating in 2021 and heads the Trust’s Appropriate Body work in partnership with the local Teaching School Hub. He delivers CPD across schools with a focus on using technology to enhance teaching and learning, and champions assessment for learning to make lessons relevant and engaging for every pupil.
Shared Vision and Whole-Child Development
Somers Heath’s ethos mirrors that of Catalyst Academies Trust: high expectations, excellent teaching, and a commitment to enabling every child to flourish. This vision embraces academic excellence, personal development, and wellbeing.
“Pupils know that staff expect the best from them. Pupils rise to the challenge. They work hard and enjoy being successful.” Oftsed 2021
The school’s nursery provision offers families high-quality early years education, ensuring children are well-prepared for Reception through consistent routines and early phonics introduction. A strong focus on sport encourages healthy lifestyles, while pastoral care ensures pupils feel supported and ready to learn.
Facilities That Inspire Learning
The fully refurbished school building provides bright, modern spaces for learning. Outdoor areas include a large field, multi-use games area, and dedicated zones for outdoor learning. A well-equipped computer suite and classroom devices give pupils access to high-quality technology, supporting digital literacy and future-ready skills.
The Ongoing Journey
Somers Heath Primary’s progress reflects the value of working in partnership with Catalyst Academies Trust. With a focus on continuous improvement, the school aims to further raise attainment, broaden enrichment opportunities, and ensure that every child leaves as a confident, capable, and compassionate young person.
Find out more about our approach to teacher training, school-to-school support, LLE & SLE coaching or view the Catalyst School prospectus.
To explore how Catalyst Academies Trust could support your school get in touch.