Abbotsbury Primary School, located in Morden, Surrey, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 13 and 14, 2023. The school is characterized by its high expectations for all students and a strong sense of belonging among pupils and staff. Students describe the environment as caring, highlighting the friendliness of the staff and the cooperative nature of their interactions. The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to thrive.
Pupils are well aware of the school rules and understand their importance in maintaining safety. The atmosphere within the school is calm and orderly, with students exhibiting good behavior. They know whom to approach with concerns, and staff take these concerns seriously, addressing issues such as bullying promptly. The positive relationships between adults and pupils contribute to a supportive learning environment.
The leadership at Abbotsbury Primary School emphasizes the importance of broadening pupils' experiences. Students are encouraged to explore their talents and interests through various opportunities, including visits to theaters, museums, and participation in sporting events. The school offers a range of clubs and activities, fostering a well-rounded education. Additionally, staff promote environmental awareness, with initiatives like the 'Green Team' that helps maintain the cleanliness of the school grounds.
The curriculum at Abbotsbury Primary School is well-structured, with clear goals across all subjects. The content is designed to build progressively as students advance through their education. For instance, children in the Nursery are supported in developing their listening skills, which later enables them to compose music and understand musical notation by Year 4. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that teaching consistently develops pupils' subject-specific vocabulary.
Teachers at the school are effectively supported in enhancing their subject knowledge, allowing them to explain new concepts clearly. They provide ample opportunities for pupils to practice and apply their mathematical skills. For example, children in Reception confidently recognize and count numbers from one to ten. While teachers generally address misconceptions, there are instances where prior learning is not revisited effectively, hindering deeper understanding.
Recent efforts to improve early reading have shown positive results, especially in Reception and Years 1 and 2. The alignment of reading materials with the sounds pupils are learning has improved, although the impact on Year 6 reading outcomes has yet to be fully realized. Leaders have prioritized staff training in phonics and have expanded the range of decodable books available. The phonics program is implemented effectively, ensuring that all pupils, including those new to English, receive the support they need to develop their reading skills.
The school fosters an inclusive culture, with staff demonstrating a solid understanding of how to support pupils with special educational needs. Teachers adapt lessons to ensure these pupils can access the curriculum and achieve their potential. Expectations for behavior are well established, and pupils are engaged and focused during lessons, contributing to a productive learning environment.
Abbotsbury Primary School also prioritizes the personal development of its pupils, offering a variety of activities that enrich their education. These include visits to places of worship and lessons about different religions and cultures. Staff support their professional development, fostering a strong sense of teamwork among the faculty. Leaders are responsive to staff needs, making decisions that help manage workloads effectively.
The school's safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a strong culture of vigilance. Staff receive regular training and are encouraged to report concerns promptly. Partnerships with external agencies provide additional support for pupils and families in need. Pupils are educated about local risks, including online safety, and older students help reinforce this knowledge among younger peers.
While Abbotsbury Primary School has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some teaching practices do not consistently secure important knowledge in pupils' memories, which can hinder their ability to build on prior learning. Leaders must ensure that teachers frequently revise and check pupils' understanding to solidify their knowledge and skills. Additionally, there is a need for a more consistent approach to developing pupils' vocabulary across all subjects to enhance their understanding. Overall, Abbotsbury Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a commitment to ongoing improvement.
