Great Budworth CofE Primary School, located in Cheshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 20, 2022. The school provides a supportive and caring environment where pupils feel valued and safe. The leadership team has established high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Most pupils achieve well, demonstrating a strong commitment to their learning.
Pupils from Years 1 to 6, along with early years children, actively engage in their lessons, adhering to school rules and striving to do their best. They are aware that assistance is readily available from staff when they encounter challenges in their learning. The school fosters a polite and welcoming atmosphere, contributing to a calm learning environment.
Students benefit from a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs and educational trips, which broaden their understanding of the world beyond their immediate surroundings. The school's international connections have helped pupils appreciate cultural differences and promote respect and dignity among peers. The school encourages cooperative play, with pupils creating their own games on the extensive grounds, fostering a sense of community and friendship.
The curriculum at Great Budworth is ambitious and well-structured, designed to provide pupils with a broad knowledge base across various subjects. Leaders have successfully navigated the complexities of mixed-age classes, ensuring that the curriculum aligns with national standards. However, there are areas where the curriculum could be improved, particularly in identifying specific knowledge that pupils should acquire in certain subjects. This gap can hinder pupils' ability to build on prior learning effectively.
The reading curriculum is a strong point, with staff prioritizing early reading skills. Children in the Reception class are taught to recognize sounds and blend them to read words. Regular assessments help identify pupils needing additional support, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to keep pace with their peers. While most staff are well-trained in delivering the phonics program, some have not received adequate training, which can slow progress for certain pupils.
Pupils express a genuine love for reading, discussing their favorite books enthusiastically. Teachers utilize their subject knowledge effectively to enhance pupils' understanding of literature, selecting engaging texts for class reading sessions.
The school is proactive in identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs, collaborating closely with teachers to tailor support to individual requirements. Leaders have also integrated opportunities for pupils to learn about diverse cultures through various subjects and activities, including visits to religious sites, fostering respect for different beliefs.
Behaviour at the school is commendable, with pupils demonstrating strong attitudes towards learning and respect for one another. The leadership team is mindful of staff workload and well-being, contributing to a positive working environment where staff feel proud to be part of the school community.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff receiving regular training to ensure they can respond appropriately to any concerns regarding pupil safety. Pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, both in physical activities and online.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring all staff receive comprehensive training in the phonics curriculum and refining the curriculum to clearly define the knowledge pupils should acquire. Overall, Great Budworth CofE Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
