East Anstey Primary School, located in Tiverton, Devon, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on March 20 and 21, 2024. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education for its pupils, who are proud to attend. The school fosters an environment where high expectations are set, and pupils respond positively by engaging well in their learning. In the classroom, students exhibit good listening skills and a willingness to learn, while in the playground, they interact harmoniously across different age groups, creating their own games with the available equipment.
The relationships between staff and pupils are characterized by warmth and support. Staff members show genuine care for the students and their families, greeting them with smiles as they arrive at school. This nurturing atmosphere contributes to a sense of belonging among pupils, who appreciate being part of this friendly community. The school promotes a variety of extracurricular activities, including music lessons where pupils learn to play instruments such as the gamelan, ocarina, and recorder. Opportunities for performances in assemblies and concerts further enrich the students' experiences. Educational trips and visits enhance the curriculum, helping to build pupils' character and resilience. Notably, older pupils participate in the Exmoor challenge, which involves teamwork and navigation skills over a challenging 16-mile route.
Parents express overwhelming satisfaction with the school, highlighting its strong commitment to their children's education. All parents who responded to the Ofsted Parent View survey indicated they would recommend the school. The curriculum is designed to accommodate mixed-age classes, with a logical sequence of content from Reception Year through to Year 6. For instance, in mathematics, younger pupils use cubes for basic addition, while older students tackle more complex problems involving fractions and decimals.
However, the school has identified areas for improvement. In some subjects, there is a need for more precise identification of the small steps of knowledge that pupils should acquire, particularly in the early years. This gap can hinder pupils' preparedness for subsequent stages of their education. While subject leaders effectively monitor learning in mathematics and English, the leadership in the wider curriculum is still developing. This inconsistency in subject delivery affects the overall learning experience for pupils.
Reading is prioritized, with a strong foundation laid in Nursery and Reception. Skilled adults support language development, and by the end of Year 1, most pupils can confidently apply their phonics knowledge. The school ensures that reading materials are well-matched to pupils' learning levels, fostering a love for reading among older students who take pride in their new library space.
Assessment practices are effective, allowing staff to identify and address gaps in learning. The school provides additional support for pupils who require it, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. These pupils are included in all aspects of school life, and their learning progress is evident in their work.
The school also promotes pupils' wider development, emphasizing the importance of education for future careers. Initiatives like a business week allow pupils to engage in practical learning experiences. Furthermore, pupils demonstrate an understanding of British values and respect for diversity, with older students showing knowledge of world religions.
Governors play an active role in holding the school accountable, demonstrating a clear understanding of its strengths and areas for improvement. The commitment of all staff to positively impact pupils' lives is evident, contributing to a proud and dedicated school community. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, East Anstey Primary School is a good school that continues to strive for excellence in education.
