Haversham Village School, located in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, was inspected on November 1 and 2, 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, maintaining a positive trajectory since its last inspection twelve years ago when it was deemed outstanding. The school has undergone significant changes in recent years, particularly with the arrival of a new headteacher and governing body, who have successfully navigated the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The school community, including staff and parents, expresses high satisfaction with the school's direction and the quality of education provided.
Pupils at Haversham Village School are reported to be happy and engaged, feeling secure and safe in their environment. The school promotes a vibrant atmosphere with spacious grounds that encourage active play. The ethos of the school emphasizes hard work and positive behavior, with older pupils serving as role models for younger students. The school has established effective routines that contribute to a calm and productive learning environment, minimizing concerns about bullying.
The curriculum at Haversham is ambitious, with clear end goals designed to prepare pupils for their transition to secondary education. Subject leaders have collaborated with external professionals to refine the curriculum, ensuring that essential knowledge is imparted from the early years through to Year 6. However, there are areas where the sequencing of knowledge could be improved, particularly in ensuring coherence across different stages of learning.
Reading is a strong focus at the school, with a new phonics program implemented to enhance consistency in teaching practices. Pupils are encouraged to read widely, and additional support is provided for those who need extra help. Teachers are skilled in delivering clear explanations and revisiting prior content to reinforce learning. However, there is a recognition that further training for staff could enhance the delivery of the phonics program.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the curriculum. While staff are quick to identify these pupils and provide necessary support, there is a need for improved expertise in delivering tailored learning experiences that align with curricular goals.
Pupils benefit from a high-quality personal development curriculum that fosters kindness and empathy. They actively participate in school life and demonstrate a strong focus during lessons. The school council provides a platform for pupils to voice their opinions and contribute to positive changes within the school.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to respond appropriately to any concerns regarding pupil safety. Leaders work closely with external agencies to ensure that pupils receive the necessary support. The curriculum also educates pupils about local risks and online safety, preparing them for future challenges.
To improve further, the school needs to ensure that knowledge is sequenced effectively across all subjects from Reception to Year 6. Subject leaders require ongoing professional development to enhance their monitoring skills and ensure that classroom practices align with curricular expectations. Additionally, teachers should receive support in delivering the ambitious curriculum to enable all pupils, including those with SEND, to learn effectively. Overall, Haversham Village School is making commendable progress, with a strong foundation for continued improvement in the quality of education it provides.
