Shebbear Community School, located in Devon, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 25, 2022. The school fosters a welcoming environment where pupils enjoy attending and feel a strong sense of community. The family-oriented ethos helps new students integrate smoothly, and the school plays a vital role in village life, with pupils actively participating in local events. Positive relationships among pupils and staff are evident, and feedback from parents and students indicates a high level of satisfaction, with all respondents recommending the school.
The leadership team maintains high expectations for all pupils, emphasizing the motto that every lesson counts. Personal development is prioritized, with a curriculum designed to broaden pupils' understanding of society beyond their immediate environment. Opportunities for learning about different cultures, such as through remote learning about life in India, are provided, ensuring pupils are well-prepared for life in modern Britain.
Safety is a key focus at Shebbear Community School, with pupils expressing trust in staff to address any concerns. While there have been past incidents of bullying, students feel confident that such behavior is no longer tolerated, thanks to the proactive measures taken by staff.
Recent improvements to the curriculum have been made, with leaders identifying essential knowledge for pupils across various subjects. In religious education, for instance, lessons are structured to facilitate understanding and retention. The curriculum is inclusive, with adaptations made for pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they can reach their full potential.
Reading is emphasized throughout the school, starting from the Reception Year. Older pupils have access to high-quality literature and express a passion for reading, recognizing its importance. However, the introduction of a new phonics scheme is still in its early stages, and some children in the early years are not receiving the expert support needed to catch up in their reading skills.
Mathematics is another area where pupils show enthusiasm, with a well-sequenced curriculum that has positively impacted learning. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge, and leaders regularly assess the curriculum's effectiveness. However, there are instances where assessment information is not utilized effectively, leading to some pupils not being sufficiently challenged.
Behavior in lessons is commendable, with pupils demonstrating a strong work ethic and a desire to succeed. This positive atmosphere is a result of raised expectations from leaders, contributing to a calm and orderly school environment.
The school has implemented a comprehensive program for personal development, allowing pupils to explore various themes through activities and visits. These experiences enrich the curriculum and provide valuable learning opportunities.
Staff morale is high, with all staff members expressing pride in their school and a willingness to recommend it. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with staff well-trained and aware of their responsibilities. Leaders collaborate with external agencies to ensure pupils and families receive necessary support.
Despite the school's strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders are working on enhancing phonics instruction to better support children who have fallen behind. Additionally, the approach to assessment in mathematics needs refinement to ensure all pupils are adequately challenged and can achieve their potential. Overall, Shebbear Community School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
