Willand School, located in Cullompton, Devon, has recently undergone an inspection that has resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on January 23 and 24, 2024, and highlighted several strengths of the school, as well as areas for improvement. The school is recognized for its inclusive and welcoming environment, providing a safe and happy space for pupils. Students, including those in the early years, express positive feelings about their learning experiences and appreciate the supportive nature of the staff. High expectations for behavior are established, and most pupils understand and adhere to these expectations. The school promotes a strong sense of community, with parents and carers valuing the dedication and care their children receive.
Leadership opportunities are available for pupils, including roles such as librarians and members of the school council, which help them develop responsibility and citizenship skills. The school offers various trips and experiences that enrich learning beyond the classroom. The curriculum is ambitious, focusing on essential knowledge that pupils are expected to learn and remember. Subjects like mathematics and science allow for revisiting prior learning, which helps solidify pupils' understanding. A significant emphasis has been placed on reading, with a structured curriculum that begins in the early years. Pupils enjoy reading and are encouraged to share their recommendations with peers.
Despite these strengths, the school faces challenges in certain areas. While the reading curriculum is well-structured, there are instances where misconceptions are not addressed promptly, hindering some pupils' progress. In a few subjects, the curriculum is still under review, and the assessment methods do not always effectively gauge pupils' understanding. This can lead to gaps in knowledge for some students. The new writing curriculum is not yet fully embedded, resulting in inconsistent expectations for written work across different year groups.
The school has robust processes for identifying pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and support plans are in place. However, there are times when the implementation of these plans in the classroom does not meet the needs of all pupils, leading to gaps in their learning. While most pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning, a small minority exhibit behavioral issues, which staff address with appropriate guidance.
The school's values of tolerance, equality, respect, resilience, and trust are integral to its culture, promoting moral and social development among pupils. The focus on equality and anti-discrimination is evident, with pupils learning the importance of treating one another fairly. The school offers a range of extracurricular clubs, although some parents and pupils have expressed a desire for more options.
Staff members are generally positive about their experiences at the school, appreciating the support they receive from leadership and the consideration given to their workloads and well-being. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Moving forward, the school must ensure that the curriculum is implemented as intended and that assessment practices are strengthened to enhance pupils' understanding. Additionally, consistent use of information regarding pupils with SEND is essential to meet their needs effectively. Overall, Willand School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education, with a clear path for continued improvement.
