At Somers Heath Primary School we believe that all children deserve an excellent education and the opportunity to achieve their full potential. Our aim is to develop successful learners, confident individuals and responsible citizens.
In 2017 Somers Heath joined Catalyst Academies Trust, working closely with the partner schools to continue to adopt a curriculum that is challenging and creative. The first inspection since joining Catalyst Academies Trust, Ofsted rated the school as 'Good' in December 2021, acknowledging the excellent behaviour of the children and partnership with The Trust as strengths of the school.
Our school has grown over the past decade to become a vibrant two form entry primary school. Our whole building has now been refurbished to create a modern and bright school with spacious classrooms. We also have a large site with plenty of space for sports and outdoor learning, including a MUGA pitch for all weather sports.
‘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 which is great.’ (Year 6 parent)
We value traditional subjects at Somers Heath, standards in Reading, Writing and Maths are rising as we develop a ‘can do’ attitude with children and staff. We strive for all children to make excellent progress and attain well at end of key stage assessments through quality first teaching. Regular moderation across Catalyst Academies Trust ensures that high standards are maintained. We have a broad curriculum which has been developed by Catalyst Academies Trust to reflect the high expectations we have for our children and to offer a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experiences. Our school also embraces the modern and use technology to prepare children for their future in secondary school and the world of work. For this we have a well equipped computer suite and a variety of devices that can be used in class.
‘Pupils know that staff expect the best from them. Pupils rise to the challenge. They work hard and enjoy being successful.’ (Ofsted, December 2021)
As a school, we know that the Early Years and Foundation Stage are vital building blocks for a successful education. At Somers Heath we have a nursery offering local families high quality child care, preparing children for their entry to Reception by following many of the same structures and routines, including an introduction to early phonics.
PE and Sport is highly valued at Somers Heath as part of the curriculum, as a way to encourage healthy lifestyles and to develop skills beyond the curriculum. Within the school we employ two specialist PE coaches. This means that all children have 3 sessions of high-quality timetabled PE per week, helping to keep all children active and healthy. This has also allowed us to be active participants in a wide variety of interschool competitions, across the trust, Thurrock and beyond. This gives many children the opportunity to have the honour of representing the school in competition and allows children with a flair for sport to be successful.
Our engaging approach to teaching and learning, along with clear structures and high expectations from staff, combine to result in outstanding behaviour at Somers Heath. We have an experienced and caring pastoral team, enabling us to work in partnership with families to support with any concerns which may impact on a child’s ability to learn and enjoy school. We are also able to offer ‘in house’ counselling and play therapy services if this is appropriate.
‘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)
Somers Heath is an inclusive and diverse school, reflecting our ethos that all children should receive an excellent education, irrespective of their background or ability.
‘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)