SIAMS Reports
Please find below our SIAMs report.
“Let your light shine before others” – Matthew 5:16
We are delighted to share that following our March 2024 SIAMS inspection, St. Matthew’s Church of England Primary School is fully living up to its foundation as a Church school. The report celebrates the deep-rooted Christian vision that underpins every aspect of school life and recognises how it empowers both children and adults to flourish.
Key Strengths Celebrated in the Report
A Strong Christian Vision That Shapes All We Do
“Kindness is at the heart of St. Matthew’s. Enriched by pertinent Christian values, the vision enables pupils and adults within this school to flourish.”
Our vision “Let your light shine before others” is not just a motto; it is actively lived out in daily school life, creating a warm, welcoming and compassionate community.
Inclusive, Diverse and Nurturing
“Families are embraced as part of God’s diverse family as they join the school community.”
All are valued at St. Matthew’s. From our youngest pupils to staff and families, everyone is treated with respect and care. Vulnerable pupils are supported exceptionally well, and wellbeing is prioritised for all.
Inspirational Worship and Reflection
“Worship is a deeply valued part of each day... A highly effective partnership with the local church enriches this flourishing.”
Our daily worship is meaningful, inclusive and joyful. Led by staff, pupils, and the local church, it provides time for deep reflection, peace, and shared celebration. Pupils of all faiths, or none, feel welcomed and valued.
A Curriculum That Encourages Big Thinking
“Big questions are infused throughout a carefully crafted curriculum.”
Children are encouraged to be curious, thoughtful and courageous. Weekly reflection time, alongside powerful topics in RE, helps children grow spiritually and morally, developing resilience, creativity and responsibility.
Deep Pastoral Support and Wellbeing Focus
“Strong provision for emotional, physical and mental health enables pupils and adults to feel valued and nurtured.”
From nurture spaces to mentoring, speech and language support, and a strong pastoral team, the school actively ensures every child feels safe, seen and supported.
Social Action and Global Awareness
Pupils are encouraged to make a difference in their local and global community:
Contributions to the local foodbank and food pantry
Engagement in climate change summits and global citizenship through the Global Gang and Eco Warriors
Exploration of justice and ethical choices in class discussions
Religious Education (RE)
RE is a much-loved subject at St. Matthew’s. Pupils enjoy learning about Christianity and world faiths, developing respect, understanding and empathy. Enquiry-based learning and “big questions” help children explore complex ideas and appreciate the beliefs of others.
“Pupils enjoy RE and are enthusiastic about their lessons... The curriculum is well-balanced and effective.”
Next Steps for Development
Even in such a strong report, we are always aiming higher. The inspection recommended:
Creating more planned opportunities for all pupils to engage in social justice
Increasing collaboration with other Church schools to strengthen RE further
We are excited to act on these suggestions as part of our ongoing growth.
What This Means to Us
This report affirms everything that makes St. Matthew’s so special: our inclusive values, our nurturing environment, our ambitious curriculum, and our commitment to letting every child’s light shine. We are proud to be a Church of England school and will continue to serve our community with love, excellence, and faith at the heart.
