Medway’s Local Primary Schools Review Guide for Parents
Finding the perfect primary school for your little one is a big step—it’s where their adventure in learning and making friends really begins! In Medway, we’re lucky to have a fantastic selection of primary schools, each with something special to offer. We know how overwhelming it can be to sift through all the options, so we’ve put together a friendly guide to help you out.
Balfour Infant School
OFSTED: Good
ADMISSIONS: 90
CLASSES PER YEAR GROUP: 3
LOCATION: Rochester
Tel: 01634 338280
Breakfast Club: Yes from 7:30 am £5 per day
After School Club: Yes to 6 pm £8.50 per day
WEBSITE: www.balfourinf.medway.sch.uk
Balfour Infant School is a primary school has about 270 boys and girls aged between 5 and 7. In June 2019 the school was rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted.
Balfour Infants School in Medway, Kent, stands out as a nurturing foundation for young learners, championed by parents for its warm, inclusive environment that emphasises both academic fundamentals and personal growth. Its welcoming atmosphere, coupled with a commitment to ensuring all children, regardless of ability or background, have equal learning opportunities, makes it a popular choice. The school focuses on developing core skills such as literacy and numeracy through engaging methods, while also promoting independence, confidence, and respect through structured activities.
The blend of traditional and outdoor learning environments fosters a well-rounded educational experience. Additionally, the strong sense of community, bolstered by active encouragement of family and community involvement, is highly regarded by parents. Feedback often highlights the positive impact on children’s confidence and abilities and lauds the dedicated staff for their supportive roles. Prospective parents are encouraged to visit, to understand the school’s ethos and how it aligns with their child’s needs, while also considering how the school prepares students for the next educational stage.
In summary, Balfour Infants School represents a comprehensive option for those prioritising a supportive, engaging, and inclusive early educational experience in the Medway area.
“At Balfour Infants we strive to support all children to enable them to achieve at school.”
– www.balfourinf.medway.sch.uk
Gordon Children’s Academy – Infants
OFSTED: Good
ADMISSIONS: 60
CLASSES PER YEAR GROUP: 2
LOCATION: Strood
Tel: +44 333 360 2110
Breakfast Club: Yes from 7:30 am £3.50 per day
After School Club: Yes to 5:50 pm £8 per day / free variety of school activities
WEBSITE: www.gordonchildrensacademy.org.uk
Gordons Children’s Academy, Infant, operates as an academy and caters to approximately 160 boys and girls aged between 5 and 7. As of September 2022, it received a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted. The school is part of The Thinking Schools Academy Trust, which also encompasses other institutions such as Gordons Children’s Academy, Junior, All Faiths Children’s Academy, Cedar Children’s Academy, New Horizons Children’s Academy, and Moorings Way Infant School.
Gordon’s Children Academy is renowned for its commitment to fostering a nurturing and empowering educational environment, where each child’s potential is recognised and developed. This academy excels in delivering a holistic curriculum that emphasises not only academic excellence but also personal growth, creativity, and resilience. The dedicated staff, with their innovative teaching methods, ensures that learning is engaging and accessible for all students, including those with special educational needs.
Gordon’s Children Academy stands as a pillar in the community, offering a diverse range of extracurricular activities and support programs designed to enrich the students’ school experience. Its focus on building solid foundations in literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking skills, alongside nurturing emotional and social development, makes it a standout choice for parents seeking a well-rounded education for their children in Medway. The positive and inclusive school culture at Gordon’s Children Academy truly sets it apart, making it a vibrant and dynamic place of learning that prepares students for a bright future.
“At The Gordon Children’s Academy, we strongly believe in teaching children to become independent thinkers, thus preparing them for the ever-changing world that awaits them. Every child at our school, regardless of their starting point in life, will grow intellectually, personally and morally, every minute of every day.”
– www.gordonchildrensacademy.org.uk
New Horizons Children’s Academy
OFSTED: Good
ADMISSIONS: 90
CLASSES PER YEAR GROUP: 3
LOCATION: Chatham
Tel: +44 333 360 2115
Breakfast Club: Yes from 7:30 am £2.50 per day
After School Club: Yes to 6pm £13.50 per day
New Horizons Children’s Academy operates as an academy, serving around 640 boys and girls aged between 4 and 11. In May 2022, Ofsted awarded the school a ‘Good’ rating. It is part of The Thinking Schools Academy Trust, alongside other schools such as Cedar Children’s Academy, All Faiths Children’s Academy, Gordons Children’s Academy, Junior, Gordons Children’s Academy, Infant, and Moorings Way Infant School.
New Horizons Children’s Academy is a beacon of innovative and inclusive education, capturing the essence of what it means to provide a nurturing and stimulating learning environment for children. This academy is celebrated for its forward-thinking approach, integrating technology and modern educational strategies to ensure each child receives a tailored and comprehensive learning experience. With a steadfast commitment to fostering both academic prowess and personal growth, New Horizons empowers its students to achieve their full potential.
The dedicated and compassionate staff are pivotal in creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere where every child feels valued and supported. The academy’s focus on developing critical thinking, creativity, and emotional resilience prepares students not just for the next stages of their education, but for lifelong success. With an array of extracurricular activities, New Horizons Children’s Academy encourages students to explore their interests and passions, making it a cherished institution within the Medway community. This academy is not just a school; it’s a vibrant learning community where children are inspired to dream big and reach new horizons.
“Throughout the school, we will nurture your child’s social development. From learning to share in the Early Years to coping with a fall out with friends, your child will be supported to recognise and deal effectively with the different emotions that they experience. We want to equip our children will the skills which will enable them to be polite, confident, hardworking members of society.”
– www.newhorizonschildrensacademy.org.uk
Napier Primary School and Nursery Academy
OFSTED: Good
ADMISSIONS: 60
CLASSES PER YEAR GROUP: 2
LOCATION: Gillingham
Tel: 01634 574920
Breakfast Club: Yes from 7:30 am £4.50 per day
After School Provision: Yes to 6 pm £8.50 per day
WEBSITE: www.napierprimary.org.uk
Napier Community Primary and Nursery Academy is recognised as an academy, accommodating approximately 580 boys and girls ranging in age from 3 to 11. The academy earned a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted in December 2019. It is affiliated with The Kemnal Academies Trust, which also encompasses Horizon Primary Academy, Pluckley Church of England Primary School, Smarden Primary School, Royal Park Primary Academy, and Gray’s Farm Primary Academy.
Napier Primary School is a beacon of comprehensive and enriching education, catering to children from ages 4 to 11 with a vibrant ethos that promotes lifelong learning. Beyond the core curriculum of English, Maths, and Science, it offers an expansive range of extracurricular activities, from sports and arts to digital literacy, emphasising the importance of a holistic educational approach.
The school’s commitment to environmental education and sustainability is evident through various projects, highlighting its dedication to fostering responsible global citizens. Modern facilities and technology-enabled classrooms support interactive learning, while outdoor spaces encourage physical well-being.
Parents and the wider community often commend the nurturing environment and the personalised support offered by the dedicated staff, ensuring each child reaches their potential in an atmosphere of inclusivity and respect. With active encouragement of community engagement, Napier Primary has cultivated a strong sense of belonging and community spirit, making it a distinguished choice for parents in Medway seeking a dynamic and supportive setting for their children’s early educational journey.
“At Napier we believe that every child can succeed. We strive to ensure that all our children have high aspirations, self-belief, respect, compassion, and an understanding of their world and their community.”
– www.napierprimary.org.uk
Kingfisher Community Primary School
OFSTED: Good
ADMISSIONS: 30
CLASSES PER YEAR GROUP: 1
LOCATION: Walderslade
Breakfast Club: Yes from 8am £3 per day
After School Club : Yes to 4:15 pm / free variety of school activities
Tel: 01634 661 540c
WEBSITE: kingfisher-gst.org
Kingfisher Community Primary School operates as an academy, catering to roughly 220 children, both boys and girls, aged 3 to 11. As of September 2019, it received a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted. The school is affiliated with The Griffin Schools Trust, which also includes institutions such as Lordswood School, Saxon Way Primary School, Willow Brook Primary School Academy, Riverley Primary School, and Race Leys Junior School.
Kingfisher Primary School shines as a pillar of educational excellence, known for its nurturing approach and innovative curriculum. With a dedicated team focused on fostering a love for learning, students benefit from a well-rounded education that emphasizes both academic and personal growth. The school creates a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, enriched with extracurricular activities, encouraging students to explore interests and develop new skills. Kingfisher Primary stands out for its commitment to preparing students for future success, embodying a supportive and stimulating environment where every child is valued and poised to thrive.
“At Kingfisher Primary School we aim to encourage and inspire our pupils to achieve their goals, with the confidence to follow their dreams to become successful world citizens in an ever-changing society.”
– kingfisher-gst.org
Hilltop Primary Academy
OFSTED: Good
ADMISSIONS: 60
CLASSES PER YEAR GROUP: 2
LOCATION: Wainscott
Tel: 01634 710312
Breakfast Club: Yes from 7:30 am £4.50 per day
After School Club : Yes to 5:15pm £9.50 per day
WEBSITE: sflt.org.uk/hilltop
Hilltop Primary Academy functions as an academy, serving approximately 440 children, including both boys and girls, aged 4 to 11. The academy was awarded a ‘Good’ rating by Ofsted in June 2022. The current establishment of the school was inaugurated in 2018. It is part of the Skills for Life Trust, alongside other member schools such as Warren Wood Primary Academy and Chantry Community Academy.
Hilltop Primary School stands as a beacon of comprehensive education, renowned for its commitment to fostering a supportive and enriching environment for its students. Emphasising inclusivity, the school welcomes children from all backgrounds and abilities, offering a broad and balanced curriculum that nurtures skills in core subjects like English and Maths, alongside encouraging curiosity in science, the arts, and physical education for a well-rounded educational experience. With modern facilities including advanced classrooms, a resource-rich library, ICT suites, and extensive outdoor spaces for sports and recreation, Hilltop Primary is equipped to provide an engaging learning journey.
The school is distinguished by its vibrant community spirit, evidenced by the strong partnerships between staff, pupils, and parents, and various initiatives that promote family and community involvement. Furthermore, Hilltop Primary places a high value on student wellbeing and personal development, implementing forward-thinking programs that support emotional and social growth, such as mindfulness and eco-friendly projects. For parents in Medway, Kent looking for a nurturing yet academically rigorous primary school that prioritises both educational excellence and holistic development, Hilltop Primary School presents itself as an exceptional choice, reflecting its dedication to creating a foundation for lifelong learning.
“At Hilltop, when we welcome your child into our reception class you can be confident that they will receive the very best start to their educational journey which will prepare them for the adults they will one day become. We teach our pupils Skills For life, not only to ensure that they reach their potential at every age but also to give them an education that is for the whole person and not just academic excellence.”
– sflt.org.uk/hilltop/
Temple Mill Primary School
OFSTED: Good
ADMISSIONS: 30
CLASSES PER YEAR GROUP: 1
LOCATION: Wainscott
Tel: 01634 629079
Breakfast Club: Yes from 7:30 am £4 per day
After School Club : Yes to 5:30 pm £7.50 per day
WEBSITE: www.templemill-that.org.uk
Temple Mill Primary School operates as an academy and accommodates around 250 students, both boys and girls, aged 3 to 11. In October 2018, Ofsted awarded the school a ‘Good’ rating. The school is affiliated with The Howard Academy Trust, which also encompasses Thames View Primary School, Miers Court Primary School, and Deanwood Primary School.
Temple Mill Primary School in Medway, Kent, is celebrated for its educational excellence and innovative approach, fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where every child is encouraged to reach their full potential. With a curriculum that emphasises not only core subjects like English, Math, and Science but also a broad range of experiences including the arts, physical education, and digital literacy, Temple Mill ensures a well-rounded education for its students. The school boasts thoughtfully designed facilities, including spacious classrooms and a well-resourced library, supporting its philosophy of engagement and discovery in learning. Notably, the school places great importance on community and values-based education, promoting respect, responsibility, and a strong sense of belonging among students.
Extracurricular activities and initiatives, ranging from environmental projects to cultural celebrations, further exemplify the school’s commitment to preparing students to navigate the modern world with a global and ecological perspective. For families in the Medway area seeking a nurturing yet academically challenging environment, Temple Mill Primary School stands out as a top choice, dedicated to the holistic development of its students and fostering a cohesive community network of educators, students, and families.
“We aim to develop happy, resilient and responsible individuals who are given the opportunity to reach their full potential. We have strived to create a nurturing and supportive atmosphere where every pupil is supported to achieve their best.”
– www.templemill-that.org.uk
Cliffe Woods Primary School
OFSTED: Outstanding
ADMISSIONS: 60
CLASSES PER YEAR GROUP: 2
LOCATION: Cliffe Woods
Tel: 01634 220 822
Breakfast Club: Yes from 7:30 am £4.50 per day
After School Club : Yes to 6:30 pm £10 per day
WEBSITE: www.cliffewoods.medway.sch.uk
Cliffe Woods Primary School, functioning as an academy, hosts approximately 420 students, including both boys and girls, within the age range of 4 to 11. It achieved an ‘Outstanding’ rating from Ofsted in March 2015. The school is part of the Aletheia Academies Trust, which includes a network of institutions such as Shorne Church of England Primary School, Holy Trinity Church of England Primary School, Saint George’s Church of England School, Halling Primary School, and St Botolph’s Church of England Primary School.
Cliffe Woods Primary is celebrated for its dynamic curriculum that not only emphasises core academic subjects but also promotes a broad spectrum of extracurricular activities, ensuring a well-rounded development for its pupils. The school boasts modern facilities, conducive to fostering an engaging and productive learning environment. Teachers and staff are highly committed to individual student growth, focusing on innovative teaching methods that cater to diverse learning needs. Moreover, Cliffe Woods Primary is part of the Aletheia Academies Trust, underlining its commitment to excellence and collaborative learning within a broader educational community.
For families in Medway, Kent, looking for a standout primary education experience for their children, Cliffe Woods Primary School represents a top-tier option, distinguished by its dedication to fostering academic achievement and personal development in a supportive setting.
“Our aim is for our children to be confident, caring, resilient, inquisitive young adults with a desire to learn and achieve the best they can in all they do and be best prepared for the future.”
– www.cliffewoods.medway.sch.uk
Miers Court Primary School
OFSTED: Good
ADMISSIONS: 60
CLASSES PER YEAR GROUP: 2
LOCATION: Rainham
Tel: 01634 388943
WEBSITE: www.mierscourt-that.org.uk
Miers Court Primary School operates as an academy, serving roughly 390 children, both boys and girls, aged 4 to 11. In November 2021, it received a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted. The school is affiliated with The Howard Academy Trust, which also manages other institutions such as Thames View Primary School, Deanwood Primary School, and Temple Mill Primary School.
Miers Court Primary School is celebrated for its nurturing environment, where pupils are encouraged to explore, learn, and grow through a dynamic curriculum that encompasses a wide range of subjects and extracurricular activities. With a focus on fostering resilience, creativity, and critical thinking, Miers Court Primary strives to equip its students with the skills and knowledge necessary for lifelong success. Parents and the wider community often commend the school for its dedicated staff, modern facilities, and strong emphasis on values, making it a standout choice for families in Medway seeking a supportive and enriching primary education experience for their children.
“Our curriculum is aimed at sparking the children’s interest and allowing their curiosity to grow. Through the opportunities that the curriculum offers and our promotion of life-long learning skills, we aspire for the children to build their independence and resilience and to have a sense of pride in all their learning.”
– www.mierscourt-that.org.uk
Featherby Infant School
OFSTED: Good
ADMISSONS: 90
CLASSES PER YEAR GROUP: 3
LOCATION: Twydall
Tel: 01634 231984
Breakfast Club: Yes from 7:30 £4.50 per day
After School Club : Yes to 5:30pm £8 per day
WEBSITE: www.featherby-inf.medway.sch.uk
Featherby Infant and Nursery School is recognised as an academy and hosts approximately 300 children, both boys and girls, aged between 3 and 7. In November 2021, it was awarded a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted, showcasing its commitment to high educational standards. The school is part of the Maritime Academy Trust, which also encompasses institutions such as Featherby Junior School, Barnsole Primary School, Bligh Primary School (Infants), Bligh Primary School (Juniors), and Ebbsfleet Green Primary School.
Featherby Primary School is a beacon of educational excellence and nurturing care, composed of both Infant and Nursery the school is celebrated for its inclusive and stimulating learning environment. Its curriculum is rich and varied, designed to ignite curiosity and a passion for learning, emphasizing key foundational skills in literacy and numeracy while also promoting personal development through arts, sports, and environmental education. The school’s commitment to excellence is further underscored by its dedicated staff, who are commended by parents and the community for creating a warm and encouraging atmosphere where every child has the opportunity to excel and grow with confidence.
Featherby Primary School stands as a vibrant and forward-thinking choice for parents in Medway, offering a comprehensive approach to early and primary education that lays a strong foundation for its students’ future success.
“Learning together to inspire minds through inclusive and creative practice – aspirations are high for all.”
– www.featherby-inf.medway.sch.uk
Wrapping up our journey through the local primary schools, it’s clear that each offers its own blend of academics, extracurricular activities, and community spirit, aiming to cater to the diverse needs and aspirations of every child. As you consider your options, remember primary school admissions typically start the September before your child turns 4yrs of age. Be sure to delve into each school’s website for a deeper look into what they offer and their specific admission guidelines.
Choosing the right school is a significant decision, but armed with the right information, you can select a place where your child will flourish. If you’ve visited these schools or have insights to share, don’t hesitate to leave your comments and opinions below. Your experience could shine a light for other parents navigating this path. Here’s to finding the perfect starting line for your child’s educational journey!
Latest reviews
Generally okay
Gordon Academy seem to be the right balance for my child. Especially with year 1.
Kudos to the teachers
Cliffe Woods Primary School
Thank you for providing additional context and clarification regarding this past situation. As the former chair of governors, you did your due diligence in thoroughly vetting the candidate’s qualifications and background check at the time of hiring. No issues were found that would have raised red flags during the hiring and renewal process. When concerns were eventually brought to light, you took immediate and appropriate action to suspend the individual and allow for a full investigation. You also ensured the safety and well-being of the children were top priority by facilitating a smooth transition to new leadership. Understandably, past mistakes would still weigh heavily after so many years, but I’m glad to hear the school received a positive evaluation from inspectors and has continued providing a nurturing environment for children to thrive in since moving forward. While the original review did not capture the full timeline of events, I appreciate you taking the time to provide further details to present a balanced perspective. The most important thing is all parties worked hard to properly handle the situation and continue the important work of education.
Cliffe Woods Primary School
Just read the review 6/3/24 and have to inform people Mr Watson resigned in 2015, 9 years ago. I was chair of governors at the time and I object to the comment clearly mistakes were made in his recruitment etc. The recruitment was supported by a medway advisor. He was previously a deputy head came with a good reference and his DBS check was clear each time it was renewed as he had no previous convictions. I was shocked when medway safeguarding contacted me and I suspended him immediately. He resigned before his trial so we were able to move forward and appoint a new Head. In 2016 we had a Safeguarding Ofsted which we passed as they were satisfied all actions taken were indeed correct. The school has long since moved forward and children are still thriving. I don’t know why someone can write a review 9 years after the event and make it sound current, it seems most unfair.
