Our School
St Mary Cray Primary has a long history over one hundred years, however the 1st September 2014 marked a fresh start with a conversion to academy status. The new academy self-evaluates itself as at least good in all areas. This was verified in Nov 2015 and Nov 2016 by Challenge Partners, through independent, external reviews led by Senior Ofsted Inspectors.
The school is one form entry (with two classes currently in Reception) that has circa 210 children. The school has two halls, a Nurture Room, playing field, fenced sports area, large playground, trim trail, and a number of “break out” rooms allowing for smaller group teaching. The school is part of The Spring Partnership Trust which allows leaders and staff to share ideas and thinking. SMCPA also belongs to other collaborative networks including the Warren Teaching School Alliance and Challenge Partners. The school focuses both on achievement across the curriculum and memorable opportunities for all learners. Progress in learning is based on the principles of teaching to the next step gaps for all learners, with continual assessment and reacting to individuals’ needs.
The school provides support for all children. There is a part time and out of class SENCO to lead learning for all groups of children. The SENCO works closely with our Family Support Leader. The Family Support Leader provides key links between home and the school.
In English learning is centred around quality texts and producing real outcomes for real audiences. In Maths there is focus on understanding the key skills that allow children to move forwards whilst teaching to the gaps that children may have. SMCPA’s foundation curriculum means children learn around inspiring topics that enthuse them.
The school is developing and exciting new dynamic computing curriculum meaning that all pupils learn skills that will be transferable to all areas of their lives. SMCPA has developed strong links with Bromley Youth Music Trust and learners in KS2 all receive specialist music teaching including provision in recorders, brass instruments and singing. The school has a brass band and a choir.
Furthermore, children enjoy numerous school trips during the school year that add value to their overall learning experiences. The school uses specialist planning that engages children and ensures they are learning a wide variety of skills, developing a love for fitness, and and understanding for the importance that physical activity has on our mental wellbeing, as well as our physical health. SMCPA has lots of clubs both after school and during lunch time. There is also After School and Breakfast Clubs to provide extended care options for families.
A key part of the approach to learning is a focus on integrating Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural development, as well as an understanding of British Values, across the curriculum. To enhance this further there is discrete time built into children’s timetables to reflect on personal development in these areas. The children evidence their steps forwards as they complete Foundation, Bronze, Silver and Gold awards. We also have a house system at SMCPA where children are rewarded for behaviour and learning competing weekly to earn their house the cup in our celebration of achievement assemblies.