Frenchay Church of England Primary School, located in Bristol, has recently undergone an inspection on the 8th and 9th of October 2024. The school has received a commendable rating of good across all key areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This is the first inspection under section five of the Education Act 2005, as the school had not been previously inspected in this capacity.
Pupils at Frenchay Primary School express pride in their school, which fosters a strong sense of community through its vision of Believe, Belong, Become. The relationships among pupils and between pupils and staff are characterized by kindness and helpfulness, contributing to a happy and welcoming environment. The school promotes respect and politeness, with pupils moving safely and orderly throughout the premises. The dining hall and playground are noted as calm spaces, and pupils feel secure, knowing that adults are available to assist them with any concerns.
The school is ambitious for all pupils to achieve well, and in most subjects, pupils demonstrate a solid understanding of essential knowledge, which they can apply to new learning. This approach ensures that most pupils are well-prepared for the next stages of their education. Leadership roles such as house captains and school councillors help pupils develop a sense of responsibility and character. Participation in fundraising events for both the school and national charities allows pupils to contribute positively to their community.
The curriculum at Frenchay Primary is carefully sequenced in most subjects, enabling pupils to build their knowledge progressively. For instance, Year 4 pupils learn about the digestive system, while Year 6 pupils expand their understanding of the human body. However, in some subjects, the school has not clearly defined the knowledge that pupils should acquire, which can hinder their learning progression. Additionally, some pupils may forget previously learned information due to this lack of clarity, making it challenging for staff to assess their knowledge retention effectively.
The school places a strong emphasis on early reading, implementing an effective phonics programme that begins in the Reception Year. Staff are well-trained to deliver this programme, and most pupils progress through it successfully. The school identifies pupils who may have gaps in their knowledge and provides additional support to help them catch up. Pupils show enthusiasm for reading, and those who struggle receive the necessary assistance to improve their fluency.
Frenchay Primary School effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). The school thoroughly identifies and assesses these needs, planning appropriate activities to facilitate learning. However, there are instances where staff do not adequately check the progress of all pupils, including those with SEND, which can lead to unaddressed gaps in knowledge.
The personal, social, and health education curriculum is well-implemented, starting in the Reception Year and helping pupils understand themselves and others. The school also provides opportunities for pupils to learn about social issues, fostering a broader understanding of the world. Most pupils engage positively with their learning, building strong relationships with peers and adults alike.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil attendance, actively tracking and analyzing attendance data. When attendance declines, appropriate actions are taken to encourage improvement. Governors play a crucial role in monitoring the school's effectiveness, understanding its strengths, and challenging it to continue improving. Staff appreciate the support they receive in managing their workload and well-being, as well as the training that enhances their subject knowledge. Overall, many parents and carers express positive views about the school, particularly valuing the strong relationships between staff and students. The arrangements for safeguarding are deemed effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
