Located in the picturesque town of Braunton, Devon, Southmead School has recently reaffirmed its status as a good school following an inspection conducted on March 13 and 14, 2023. The school, situated on Drafton Road, continues to provide a nurturing and safe environment for its pupils, fostering a love for learning and a strong sense of community.
Pupils at Southmead School express their enjoyment of attending classes and feel secure within the school grounds. The welcoming atmosphere is evident as school leaders greet students daily at the gate, creating a friendly and approachable environment. Parents also appreciate the open lines of communication with school leaders, ensuring they can easily seek assistance when needed.
Behavior among students is commendable, with the school maintaining a calm and orderly environment. Instances of low-level disruption are rare, and when they do occur, teachers address them swiftly to minimize any impact on learning. Pupils report that bullying is not a concern, and they trust that staff will listen and resolve any issues that arise.
The school prides itself on promoting core values such as respect, equality, self-confidence, perseverance, enjoyment, curiosity, and trust. These principles are deeply embedded in the school culture and are reflected in the positive experiences of the students. Staff members maintain high expectations and actively reward positive behaviors, both individually and within house teams.
Southmead School offers a broad curriculum designed to engage students and enhance their learning experiences. Leaders have meticulously crafted a curriculum that allows pupils to build their knowledge progressively across various subjects. The school has made significant investments in reading instruction, ensuring that children begin learning to read as soon as they enter Reception. However, some pupils face challenges due to gaps in their phonics knowledge, which can hinder their reading fluency. The school is aware of this issue and is working to ensure that all pupils receive appropriate support and resources.
Leaders at Southmead School are dedicated to supporting pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities. These students are fully included in all aspects of school life and achieve commendable results. Staff are quick to identify those who require additional help and provide effective support in the classroom, collaborating with external agencies to meet the diverse needs of all pupils.
To cultivate a passion for reading, teachers encourage reading for pleasure through dedicated sessions and library visits. The recent addition of a large red bus, which will serve as a reading hub, is an exciting development aimed at further promoting literacy among students.
The school places a strong emphasis on safeguarding, with effective arrangements in place to ensure the safety of all pupils. Leaders conduct thorough checks on adults working in the school, and staff are well-trained to recognize and respond to safeguarding concerns. Pupils are educated on online safety and healthy relationships, empowering them to seek help from trusted adults when needed.
While Southmead School has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Specifically, the school aims to enhance its phonics curriculum to ensure that all pupils, particularly those with historical gaps in their phonics knowledge, receive targeted instruction that aligns with their learning needs.
In conclusion, Southmead School stands as a testament to the power of a supportive and well-structured educational environment. With its commitment to high standards, inclusivity, and the holistic development of its pupils, the school continues to thrive as a cornerstone of the Braunton community. As it moves forward, Southmead School is poised to build on its successes and address areas for growth, ensuring that every child receives the quality education they deserve.
