Instow Community Primary and Pre-School, located in Devon, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 4, 2023. The school fosters a positive and inclusive environment where pupils express their love for attending. They adhere to the school’s core values of friendship, aspiration, inclusion, resilience, and respect, which contribute to a sense of safety and belonging. Pupils feel comfortable approaching any adult for support when they have concerns, reflecting the respectful relationships between staff and students. The headteacher actively engages with pupils to discuss school improvements, leading to initiatives such as the development of an anti-bullying charter.
The leadership team maintains high expectations for pupil behavior, resulting in a calm and focused atmosphere throughout the school. Pupils engage positively with one another during playtime in well-equipped playgrounds and demonstrate pride in their work. They respond promptly to instructions, which enhances the overall learning environment. The school offers a variety of activities that prepare pupils for future challenges, with students describing themselves as world ready. Leadership roles, such as house captains and peer mediators, empower pupils to take responsibility and support their peers.
Parents and carers appreciate the supportive nature of the staff, who are dedicated to meeting the individual needs of their children. The school prioritizes early reading and mathematics, providing high-quality training for staff to ensure effective support for all pupils. Carefully selected reading materials align with pupils' phonics knowledge, enabling them to become confident readers. The school emphasizes the importance of reading, with daily read-aloud sessions that enhance pupils' learning experiences.
Mathematics instruction is reinforced through regular reviews, helping pupils connect new concepts with prior knowledge. Pupils enjoy the subject and are eager to share their learning. The early years environment is well-structured, incorporating outdoor activities that promote independence and self-confidence. Teachers utilize precise questioning to develop children's speech and language skills, ensuring a solid foundation for future learning.
Pupils also learn about physical health through participation in local sports clubs and well-designed physical education programs. However, the wider curriculum subjects require further development to ensure that pupils gain a comprehensive understanding across all areas. The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, collaborating with parents and teachers to create personalized learning targets.
Pupils engage in various activities that promote personal development, including exploring the local environment and participating in residential trips. They learn about diverse cultures and the importance of democracy, equality, and healthy relationships. The governing body plays an effective role in supporting school improvement and ensuring the well-being of both pupils and staff.
The safeguarding arrangements at Instow Community Primary and Pre-School are robust, with a strong culture of safety established by the leadership team. Staff receive regular training to identify and address risks, and pupils are educated on online safety. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with leaders recognizing the need for consistent implementation of the curriculum across all subjects to enhance pupils' knowledge retention. Overall, Instow Community Primary and Pre-School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
