St Paul’s Church of England Combined School in Wooburn Green, High Wycombe, received a positive inspection report in October 2019, achieving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education, with pupils showing enthusiasm for their learning and enjoying their school life. The morning ‘wake and shake’ sessions highlight the positive relationships between staff and pupils, contributing to a harmonious school environment. Pupils are engaged in their work, participate actively in additional activities, and feel safe and secure, with minimal incidents of bullying reported. Parents express satisfaction with the care their children receive from staff, reinforcing the supportive community around the school.
Leadership at St Paul’s is ambitious, aiming to foster an inclusive educational environment that offers a broad range of opportunities for all pupils. The headteacher has taken on teaching responsibilities to ensure that educational standards remain high, particularly for Year 6 pupils preparing for secondary school. The curriculum is well-structured, with subject leaders reviewing and refining planning to ensure that learning outcomes are clearly defined and sequenced. Pupils demonstrate a solid understanding of various subjects, including history, where they can articulate their knowledge of Victorian life.
Pupils at St Paul’s are eager to be challenged and show resilience in their learning. They are encouraged to take on difficult tasks, reflecting a culture of striving for personal bests. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with all pupils achieving well in phonics assessments. Parents play an active role in supporting their children’s reading habits, and the school provides a diverse range of reading materials. However, there is a noted need for improvement in fostering a deeper passion for literature among key stage two pupils, as their reading choices are not sufficiently guided by staff.
While the school excels in many areas, there are some aspects that require attention. Parents of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities have expressed concerns regarding the adequacy of support provided. Although teaching assistants offer valuable assistance, there is a need for better adaptation of whole-class teaching to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, including those with SEND. Additionally, while safeguarding measures are generally effective, the documentation of follow-up actions could be more detailed to ensure comprehensive tracking of individual cases.
The early years provision is strong, with a welcoming nursery class that helps children settle quickly. Staff interactions are purposeful, promoting focused learning through skilled questioning. The emphasis on individual development is commendable, and pupils exhibit respectful behavior towards adults. The school’s extracurricular offerings are regularly reviewed to ensure they meet the interests and needs of pupils.
Overall, St Paul’s Church of England Combined School is a thriving educational institution where pupils are well-prepared for future success. The collaborative efforts of parents and staff contribute to a nurturing environment that encourages personal growth and academic achievement. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with leaders actively seeking ways to enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
