The Colleton Primary School, located in Twyford, Reading, Berkshire, has recently undergone an inspection on December 5 and 6, 2023, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has maintained its previous inspection grade of good, reflecting its commitment to providing a supportive and safe environment for its pupils.
Pupils at Colleton Primary School feel secure and well-supported across all year groups. The school promotes a culture of respect and kindness through its guiding principles known as the Colleton Code, which emphasizes being ready and curious, respectful and kind, and safe and secure. This framework has fostered a positive atmosphere where pupils demonstrate empathy and understanding towards one another. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, staff address them promptly and effectively.
Since the last inspection, the school has implemented several initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of education. These efforts have resulted in most pupils achieving well across various subjects. Pupils express enthusiasm for their learning experiences and enjoy participating in a wide range of activities, including clubs and community engagement opportunities. Parents have noted the school's holistic approach to child development, highlighting the positive impact on their children's growth.
The school has made significant strides in improving its curriculum. Subject planning clearly outlines the learning objectives for all pupils, and those with special educational needs and disabilities receive timely support and adaptations to ensure they can access the same curriculum as their peers. Staff have gained confidence in teaching across the curriculum due to the training and support provided, particularly in early reading. Pupils benefit from effective modeling and regular assessments that help them build their reading skills, with additional support enabling those who need it to catch up quickly.
In the early years, children receive a strong foundation for their education, supported by knowledgeable staff who create engaging learning experiences. Opportunities for developing language, social, and emotional skills are abundant, and staff provide appropriate support during independent activities.
Pupils across all age groups exhibit respect towards adults and each other, with staff taking swift action to address any behavioural issues. The nurturing relationships within the school contribute to a positive learning environment where pupils learn to regulate their emotions. The school has successfully implemented strategies to promote regular attendance, with leaders actively supporting individual pupils to improve their attendance rates.
Pupils demonstrate a clear understanding of fundamental British values and are aware of how to stay safe online. The school is taking steps to ensure that key knowledge is explicitly included in its planning, allowing all staff to understand what pupils need to learn and retain.
Staff express positive sentiments about the school and its improvement journey, appreciating the support provided to manage their workload and well-being. The governing body plays an effective role in supporting and challenging the school to ensure continuous improvement. Collaborative relationships with other local schools have facilitated the sharing of best practices and feedback.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in maximizing learning time during lessons and ensuring consistent implementation of teaching and assessment strategies across all subjects. Continued support and training for staff will be essential in addressing these areas and maintaining the school's good standing in the educational community.
