Dear Parents and Carers,
I am incredibly pleased to share the outcome of our recent SIAMS (Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools) inspection.
The inspection recognised that Harting Church of England Primary School is living up to its foundation as a Church school and is enabling pupils and adults to flourish.
As I read the report, what struck me most was how clearly it captures the school that we all know and love. It celebrates the strength of our vision, Acorn to Oak, and the way our community comes together to help every child flourish academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually.
The inspector recognised the caring relationships that sit at the heart of school life, describing them as ‘the bedrock of our community’ and highlighting how children and adults are known and valued as individuals. This is something that has always been important to us at Harting and I am delighted to see it acknowledged so clearly.
The report also celebrates our vibrant curriculum, particularly the role of music, art, outdoor learning and the creative opportunities we provide for children to discover their talents and develop confidence in themselves. Many of you will know how passionate we are about ensuring our children experience more than just academic success, and it is wonderful to see the inspector recognise the wide range of opportunities that enrich their lives.
Another aspect highlighted was the close partnership between school and church. The report speaks warmly about the meaningful worship experiences we share, the joy of singing together and the way these opportunities support the spiritual growth of both pupils and adults.
Most importantly, the report reflects the values that underpin everything we do. Our values of love and respect were recognised as being deeply embedded throughout the school, creating a culture where kindness, compassion and care for one another are evident every day.
As with any inspection, there are areas identified for further development. We have been encouraged to strengthen opportunities for spirituality across the curriculum and to provide even more opportunities for pupils to take action in response to injustice and the needs of others. These are exciting next steps and ones that fit naturally with our vision for the future.
I would like to thank our wonderful staff, governors, clergy and volunteers whose dedication and commitment make Harting such a special place. Most of all, I want to thank our children. The inspector saw first-hand what makes them so remarkable: their kindness, curiosity, enthusiasm and sense of community. They are quite simply, fantastic ambassadors for our school.
Finally, thank you to you, our parents and carers, for your continued support. The strengths identified in this report belong to the whole school community. We are proud of what we have achieved together and excited about the journey ahead as we continue helping our children grow from Acorns to Oaks, living life in all its fullness.
With my best wishes as always,
Nick Tidey
Headteacher