Kennet Valley Primary School, located in Calcot, Reading, Berkshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on November 20-21, 2019. The school provides a positive learning environment where pupils express happiness and enjoyment in their educational experiences. Teachers are noted for making lessons engaging and for fostering a supportive atmosphere that encourages students to excel academically and personally. Feedback from parents highlights the effectiveness of the teaching staff in nurturing students' confidence and skills.
The school has established high expectations for its pupils, promoting a curriculum designed to deepen understanding across various subjects. This structured approach has led to improvements in pupils' knowledge and skills, preparing them well for future educational challenges. The curriculum is ambitious, and while there are minor variations in its implementation, the overall trend is one of rapid improvement.
Pupils exhibit commendable behavior throughout the school day, demonstrating respect and care for one another. The school has effective measures in place to address any incidents of bullying, which are reported to be rare. Students are taught to manage their emotions and behavior, contributing to a safe and nurturing environment. They also engage in leadership opportunities, such as taking on roles as sports leaders, which helps them develop responsibility and teamwork skills.
The school has made significant strides in enhancing its curriculum and teaching methods since the last inspection. Previously, there were concerns regarding the adequacy of the curriculum in providing a solid foundation across subjects. However, current efforts by staff to deliver a well-planned curriculum have resulted in improved outcomes in reading, writing, and mathematics. Pupils are now able to articulate their thoughts clearly and apply their knowledge to solve complex problems.
Reading instruction begins early in the Reception class, with teachers conducting thorough assessments to tailor their teaching strategies. This early focus on phonics equips children with the skills needed to read unfamiliar words and recognize tricky words. As a result, pupils develop into fluent readers who can comprehend and analyze texts effectively.
The school prioritizes personal development, integrating lessons on health, social skills, and emotional well-being into the curriculum. Pupils learn the importance of healthy eating and exercise, and they are encouraged to view mistakes as learning opportunities. This holistic approach fosters strong communication skills and a sense of community among students.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is well-coordinated, ensuring that their individual learning requirements are met. The special educational needs coordinator plays a crucial role in planning and implementing effective strategies that help these pupils succeed academically.
Leadership and management at Kennet Valley Primary School are effective, with staff expressing high levels of job satisfaction. Leaders are mindful of staff workload and strive to create a supportive working environment. The school has established robust safeguarding measures, ensuring that pupils' safety is a top priority. Staff are well-trained in safeguarding protocols, enabling them to respond promptly to any concerns.
While the school has made commendable progress, leaders recognize the need for ongoing improvements in the implementation of the curriculum. Ensuring that essential knowledge is taught comprehensively across all subjects remains a focus for future development. Overall, Kennet Valley Primary School is a thriving educational institution that prioritizes the well-being and academic success of its pupils.
