Courtney Primary School, located in Kingswood, Bristol, has recently undergone an inspection that highlights its strengths and areas for improvement. The school is characterized by a welcoming and inclusive environment, deeply rooted in its community. The core values of nurture, inspire, and flourish are evident in the school's operations, contributing to a positive atmosphere where pupils feel happy and proud to attend. The students demonstrate respect and good behavior, aligning with the school's high expectations. They exhibit positive attitudes towards their learning, which is reflected in their academic achievements.
The curriculum at Courtney Primary School is broad and enriched with stimulating experiences that enhance pupils' learning. Notable activities include museum visits that deepen understanding of historical events, such as World War II, and residential trips that foster essential life skills like teamwork. The school offers various opportunities for pupils to explore their interests and talents, including art lessons where they can engage in activities like silk printing and sculpture. Additionally, extracurricular clubs such as dodgeball and hockey are available, along with music lessons for those interested in learning an instrument.
Pastoral support is a significant strength of the school, with strong partnerships established between the school and families. This support positively impacts pupils' well-being, ensuring they feel safe and cared for. Parents and carers frequently commend the school for its family-like atmosphere. The leadership team has effectively navigated changes in staffing and leadership since the last inspection, working closely with local authorities and governors to stabilize the workforce and enhance the curriculum. This collaborative effort has led to improved outcomes for pupils.
While the school has made commendable progress, there are areas that require further development. Some subjects within the curriculum are still in the early stages of implementation, which affects their effectiveness compared to more established subjects. The school has identified essential knowledge and vocabulary for pupils to learn, but the assessment processes in a few subjects do not consistently identify gaps in pupils' knowledge. This oversight can hinder pupils' preparedness for subsequent learning.
The school prioritizes reading, with a phonics program that is well-implemented, enabling most pupils to become confident readers. Early years pupils engage in creative activities that support their writing skills, while additional help is provided for those who struggle with reading, including pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The teaching of reading is effective, fostering comprehension and inference skills, and pupils are encouraged to develop a love for reading through a diverse selection of books.
The school promotes personal development through a comprehensive curriculum that includes lessons on healthy relationships and the importance of diversity. Pupils are given opportunities to take on responsibilities, such as being lunchtime helpers or sports captains, which fosters a sense of community and leadership. The school also emphasizes emotional support, ensuring that pupils have access to trusted adults when they need to discuss their concerns.
In summary, Courtney Primary School is a good school that provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in the consistency of curriculum implementation and assessment practices, the overall quality of education, behavior, personal development, and leadership is commendable. The school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory and further enhance the educational experience for its students.
