Sandford School, located in Crediton, Devon, has recently undergone an inspection on 10 and 11 October 2023, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good across various categories including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has not been previously inspected under section five of the Education Act 2005, marking this as a significant evaluation of its educational standards.
The school prides itself on its inclusive ethos, which is evident from the early years where children quickly adapt and show eagerness to learn. The nurturing environment fosters resilience and helps students cope with challenges. In the main school, pupils exhibit good behaviour during lessons and social interactions. They are aware of bullying and appreciate the swift action taken by staff to address any incidents, contributing to a sense of safety. The school has implemented ‘worry boxes’ that allow students to express their concerns, further enhancing their feeling of security.
Outdoor learning is a highlight at Sandford School, where pupils engage in activities such as cooking bread over an open fire and collecting eggs from school chickens. Educational trips and visitors enrich the curriculum, making learning more engaging. A federation-wide residential trip to Bath is noted for its role in character development. The school offers a variety of extracurricular clubs, including dodgeball, drama, and multi-sports, which are well-received by students. Many pupils also take up musical instruments, contributing to a vibrant school band.
While the school has developed a new curriculum that is well-structured, it is still in the early stages of implementation, which has led to some areas not being fully assessed for effectiveness. Consequently, there are instances where pupils do not learn as effectively as they could. Mathematics instruction is particularly strong, with practical exploration in early years laying a solid foundation for future learning. Teachers effectively use assessments to adapt lessons and reinforce key concepts.
In the early years, children benefit from a rich curriculum that promotes exploration and active learning, enhancing their speaking, listening, and early mathematics skills. Reading is prioritized, with a systematic phonics approach that helps pupils gain confidence and fluency. The school ensures that those needing additional support are quickly identified and assisted, allowing them to catch up effectively.
The school maintains high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. While support for these pupils is generally effective, there are occasions when the next steps in their learning lack precision, which can hinder their progress. Leadership roles among pupils are encouraged, fostering a sense of responsibility and community involvement.
Governors play an active role in supporting and challenging the school, sharing a unified vision for the educational experience. Staff express satisfaction with the support they receive, contributing to a positive working environment. Safeguarding measures are deemed effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all students.
To improve, the school needs to ensure that the curriculum is fully implemented and assessed for its impact on learning. Additionally, targeted support for pupils with special educational needs should be refined to maximize their learning potential. Overall, Sandford School demonstrates a commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
