Stokenchurch Primary School, located in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, has recently undergone an inspection on 24 and 25 September 2024. The school has been rated as good across all key areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. Previously, the school was rated outstanding in its last inspection in May 2013, and it had been exempt from routine inspections until November 2020 due to its high performance.
The school fosters a nurturing and supportive environment where pupils thrive. They enjoy positive relationships with staff, who maintain high expectations for both behaviour and academic achievement. Pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, demonstrate good progress and take pride in their work. In the early years, children are engaged and eager to explore the vibrant learning environment. The school promotes a culture of inclusivity, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported. Incidents of unkindness or bullying are addressed promptly, and pupils show respect for diversity, advocating for the rights of all individuals.
Stokenchurch Primary School offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that cater to various interests, including computing, gardening, drama, and sports. The school choir is a source of pride, with pupils participating in performances at local and national events, including a recent collaboration with Garsington Opera. The leadership team has worked diligently to improve communication with parents and carers, resulting in positive feedback regarding the information provided about their children's progress.
The school has adapted its curriculum to meet the changing needs of its pupils, introducing new subjects and approaches that enhance enjoyment and academic success. Staff are well-trained and utilize their subject knowledge effectively, particularly in mathematics. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that teachers consistently check for understanding and address any gaps in knowledge swiftly. This is particularly important in phonics and some foundation subjects, where inconsistencies have been noted.
Reading is a significant focus at Stokenchurch Primary, with efforts made to instill a love of literature among pupils. Books are prominently displayed, and staff encourage discussions about various texts. However, there are some inconsistencies in the approach to teaching reading, which can affect the fluency and speed at which younger pupils learn to read.
The school environment is generally peaceful and productive, although some pupils may struggle with behaviour management. Staff provide effective support to these pupils, contributing to a positive atmosphere throughout the school. Opportunities for wider development are abundant, with pupils learning about various professions and participating in democratic processes through the school council.
Governors play an active role in the school, providing oversight and support to ensure continuous improvement. They are well-informed about the school's operations and contribute to its strategic direction. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring that pupils' welfare is prioritized.
Overall, Stokenchurch Primary School is a well-regarded institution that provides a solid educational foundation for its pupils. While there are areas identified for improvement, particularly in the consistency of teaching practices, the school is committed to fostering a positive learning environment and supporting the development of all its students.
