Wilden CofE VA Primary School, located in Bedfordshire, has undergone a recent inspection that has resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on the 2nd and 3rd of July 2024, and it highlighted several strengths and areas for improvement within the school. The quality of education provided is deemed good, with particular commendation for the personal development of pupils, which is rated as outstanding. The early years provision also received an outstanding rating, reflecting the school's commitment to fostering a nurturing and effective learning environment for its youngest learners.
Pupils at Wilden CofE VA Primary School express pride in their school, describing it as a family where they support one another. The school offers a variety of well-planned opportunities that encourage both academic and personal growth. Educational trips and guest speakers broaden pupils' perspectives and inspire them to consider future career paths. For instance, pupils have had the chance to visit universities and engage in hands-on activities with professionals, such as engineers.
The staff at the school maintain high expectations for pupil learning and behavior. Pupils are eager to discuss their learning experiences and demonstrate a strong ability to connect concepts across different subjects. They perform well in national assessments, benefiting from carefully designed outdoor learning activities that promote curiosity and teamwork. The school’s approach to behavior management fosters a respectful and polite atmosphere, ensuring that learning is uninterrupted and that pupils feel safe and supported.
While the school has made significant strides in improving its curriculum, there are still areas that require attention. The curriculum has been revised to cover a broad range of subjects, with clear expectations set for what pupils should learn. However, some subject leaders have not fully ensured that the curriculum is implemented consistently across all areas. This inconsistency can lead to variations in how well pupils learn in certain subjects. Additionally, while teachers generally possess strong subject knowledge, there are instances where expectations for the quality of pupils' written work are not uniformly high, resulting in variable standards.
Reading is a priority at Wilden CofE VA Primary School, starting from the early years where children are immersed in language-rich activities. The phonics program is well-established, and teachers are equipped to support pupils effectively, ensuring that those who struggle receive the necessary help to catch up. Pupils enjoy reading and demonstrate confidence in recalling and discussing high-quality texts.
The school is also proactive in identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff track progress meticulously and adapt learning to meet individual needs, allowing these pupils to thrive alongside their peers. The emphasis on personal development is exceptional, with a well-structured personal, social, and health education curriculum that prepares pupils for life in modern Britain.
Governance at the school is strong, with leaders aware of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. They support staff effectively and strive to enhance the quality of education without overburdening them. However, there is a need for some subject leaders to better utilize their assessments to ensure the curriculum is taught as intended.
In summary, Wilden CofE VA Primary School has made commendable progress since its previous inspection, moving from a requires improvement rating to good. The school provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic success and personal growth. Continued focus on consistency in curriculum implementation and maintaining high expectations for written work will further enhance the educational experience for all students.
