Waddesdon Village Primary School, located in Buckinghamshire, was inspected on January 23-24, 2019, and received a rating of good overall. The leadership and management of the school were also rated as good, with the headteacher and staff demonstrating high standards and a commitment to improvement. Following a decline in performance after the previous inspection, the school has made rapid progress, particularly in teaching and outcomes for pupils. The school has fostered a positive culture and harmonious environment, with strong teamwork among staff and positive feedback from parents regarding the changes implemented by the new headteacher.
The quality of teaching, learning, and assessment is good, with a focus on increasing the challenge for pupils, especially in mathematics. While improvements in reading and writing are evident, there is a need for further development in vocabulary acquisition. Reading instruction in key stage 1 is particularly effective, with a high percentage of pupils meeting the expected standard in phonics screening. However, the progress of the most able pupils, particularly in key stage 2, has not been as strong as that of their peers.
Personal development, behavior, and welfare are outstanding, with pupils demonstrating excellent behavior and a strong commitment to learning. The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its pupils, and there is a notable emphasis on building resilience and encouraging a growth mindset. The early years provision is effective, with children making good progress and being well-prepared for the challenges of Year 1.
Governance has improved, with governors actively supporting the headteacher and holding the school accountable for its performance. They are developing their strategic thinking and are aware of the need for further improvement in certain areas. The wider curriculum is identified as a priority for development, as some subjects lack consistency in delivering subject-specific knowledge and skills.
The school has effective systems in place for tracking pupil progress, although there are areas for improvement in assessment practices. The support for disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs is strong, with tailored interventions ensuring that these pupils make good progress.
Overall, Waddesdon Village Primary School is a good school that is on an upward trajectory. The leadership team is focused on continuous improvement, and while there are areas that require further development, the school is well-positioned to enhance its educational offerings and outcomes for all pupils. The commitment to fostering a positive learning environment and the dedication of the staff contribute significantly to the school's success.
