The monitoring inspection of Westcott Church of England School took place on May 10 and 11, 2023, following the school's previous inspection in June 2022, which deemed it inadequate and in need of special measures. The inspection aimed to assess the progress made since the last evaluation, focusing on the quality of education, personal development, and leadership and management, including safeguarding. The findings indicate that while some progress has been made, the school remains inadequate and continues to require special measures.
Leadership at the school has experienced significant changes, with several interim leaders covering the absence of the substantive headteacher. This instability has affected staffing, resulting in the use of multiple supply teachers, which has hindered continuity in teaching and learning. The governing body has also seen a turnover, with many new members, including a new chair. The anticipated academisation of the school has not yet occurred, contributing to uncertainty regarding future leadership and direction.
The inspection highlighted improvements in phonics instruction, with a coherent approach to teaching early reading now in place. Staff have received training, and pupils are learning to read with books that align with the sounds they are learning. However, the support system for pupils who need additional help is not as robust, and while older pupils are receiving some phonics support, their reading skills beyond the early stages are not developing as expected. There is a plan to address this issue, but staff changes have impeded its implementation.
Curriculum development has seen some progress, with a curriculum now established for all subjects that aligns with national requirements. However, the sequencing of skills and knowledge is not yet precise, and teachers are inconsistent in identifying gaps in pupils' knowledge. The leadership is aware of these challenges and is providing support to staff in planning and delivering the curriculum. Additionally, personal, social, and health education has been reviewed, leading to improved learning about relationships and relevant issues for pupils.
Governors are engaged and understand their roles, providing both challenge and support to the leadership team. A professional development plan for staff has been implemented, and training is attended by all staff members. However, barriers to improvement remain, particularly due to the lack of clarity regarding future leadership and the timeline for academisation. This uncertainty affects the school's ability to realize its ambitions for pupil achievement.
Safeguarding arrangements have improved significantly, with a focus on ensuring that all staff understand their responsibilities. Training for staff and governors is in place, and safeguarding is a regular agenda item in meetings. Records are maintained rigorously, and concerns are followed up promptly. Pupils are educated on how to stay safe both online and in real life.
Support from the local authority, the diocese, and a trust has been beneficial in developing the school. This collaboration has led to effective refinements in English and mathematics plans, and efforts are ongoing to enhance the wider curriculum. Overall, while there are areas of improvement, the school still faces challenges that need to be addressed to ensure that it meets the needs of its pupils and achieves the necessary standards for removal from special measures.
