Spreyton School, located in Crediton, Devon, is a primary school catering for children aged 3 to 11. It operates under the Devon Moors Federation, collaborating with four other local schools and sharing an executive headteacher and governing body. The school has a mixed-age class structure and currently has 26 pupils enrolled.
The most recent inspection of Spreyton School took place on March 26, 2024, and was an ungraded inspection under section 8 of the Education Act 2005. The school has maintained its overall judgment of good since its last graded inspection in May 2018. However, the evidence gathered during this inspection suggests that the school may not achieve the same high rating if a graded inspection were conducted at this time.
Pupils at Spreyton School express pride in their school, evident in their high attendance rates. They feel safe and well-cared for, thanks to the positive relationships fostered between staff and students. The school promotes inclusivity, ensuring that all pupils participate in various aspects of school life, including collaborative play and social activities.
The school has made strides in developing its curriculum to set high expectations for pupils. However, the curriculum's expansion into wider subjects is still in its early stages, resulting in some gaps in knowledge retention across all subjects. While pupils benefit from diverse opportunities, such as cultural clubs and educational trips, the curriculum does not yet fully support the progressive building of knowledge.
Spreyton School has effectively sequenced knowledge in subjects like mathematics, ensuring that foundational concepts are clearly mapped out. However, in foundation subjects, the curriculum lacks clarity regarding the specific knowledge pupils need to build upon their previous learning, hindering overall knowledge development. Staff training is provided to enhance teaching effectiveness, particularly in early reading. Yet, there are still areas where staff expertise is lacking, which can stall progress for some pupils. The school employs various strategies to support learning, but assessment practices need refinement to better identify and address knowledge gaps.
The school prioritizes support for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), providing tailored learning targets and training for staff to address complex needs. However, the overall implementation of the curriculum still presents challenges, preventing these pupils from achieving their full potential across all subjects.
Spreyton School places a strong emphasis on reading, utilizing assessments to monitor pupils' phonics knowledge and providing additional support where necessary. The school fosters a positive learning environment, with clear routines contributing to a calm and orderly atmosphere. Recognition for good behavior, such as the star of the week award, further encourages positive attitudes among pupils.
Beyond academics, the school offers various extracurricular activities that promote safety awareness and social engagement. Pupils participate in sporting events and community initiatives, such as running the local village shop, helping them develop as active and responsible citizens.
The school administration is committed to supporting staff well-being, providing training and guidance to enhance curriculum development. This support is valued by staff and contributes to a positive working environment. The safeguarding arrangements at Spreyton School are effective, ensuring that pupils' safety and well-being are prioritized.
In conclusion, while Spreyton School has many strengths, including a supportive environment and a commitment to pupil well-being, there are areas that require attention. The school must focus on clearly identifying the knowledge pupils need across all subjects and improving assessment practices to address knowledge gaps. Additionally, enhancing staff expertise in curriculum implementation will be crucial for ensuring that all pupils, including those with SEND, achieve their full potential. As the school prepares for its next graded inspection, addressing these areas will be vital in maintaining its reputation for providing quality education.
