South Molton Community Primary School, located on North Road in South Molton, Devon, recently underwent an inspection on December 6 and 7, 2023. The school received an overall effectiveness rating of Good, maintaining its previous inspection grade from May 2018. The inspection evaluated various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which were rated as Good.
Pupils at South Molton Community Primary School express enthusiasm for their learning experiences, particularly the school's strong emphasis on outdoor education. The extensive grounds are utilized creatively to enhance learning beyond the traditional curriculum. Students engage in activities such as studying animal habitats and caring for chickens, while also learning about sustainability through initiatives like composting and recycling. This hands-on approach prepares them to become responsible citizens.
The school fosters a calm and positive learning environment, reflecting high expectations for behavior. Pupils are noted for their politeness, consideration for others, and respect. This culture of respect begins in the early years, where children learn to collaborate and take turns. Older students take pride in their roles as Young Leaders, assisting younger peers during playtime, which instills a sense of responsibility.
Safety is a priority at the school, with pupils learning about road safety, water safety, and online safety. Bullying is rare, and students feel secure knowing there are trusted adults available to address any concerns.
The curriculum at South Molton Community Primary School is well-structured, with clear expectations for what pupils should learn and remember. This coherent sequence of learning builds on strong foundations established in the early years, particularly in vocabulary development. Staff serve as positive role models, effectively supporting children in articulating their thoughts and needs.
However, the school faces challenges in the assessment of the wider curriculum, which is still in its early stages. Teachers do not consistently check what pupils already know and can do across all subjects, leading to gaps in knowledge for some students. This can hinder their ability to recall previously learned material.
Reading is a key focus for the school, with a consistent approach to phonics instruction that helps most pupils develop a solid understanding of the phonics code. While most students read books that align with their phonics knowledge, some struggle to apply this learning in their independent writing, necessitating additional support for spelling.
The school is committed to meeting the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). However, there are instances where the support provided does not fully address the needs of these students, impacting their learning outcomes.
The behavior policy emphasizes building positive relationships, and pupils appreciate the support from staff, allowing them to learn without disruption. The school promotes equality and kindness, fostering a secure understanding of British values and respect for diverse opinions.
Most parents express positive views about the school, appreciating the friendly and supportive staff. The school collaborates effectively with parents and external agencies to improve attendance, although further efforts are needed to address attendance barriers.
The governing body demonstrates a clear understanding of the school's operations, ensuring that staff receive necessary professional development, particularly for early-career teachers. Teachers value the training and support provided by school leaders.
The arrangements for safeguarding at South Molton Community Primary School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
In summary, South Molton Community Primary School has established a strong foundation for learning, characterized by a supportive environment and a commitment to outdoor education. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in assessment practices and support for SEND pupils, the school is well-positioned to continue fostering a positive educational experience for its students. The recent inspection highlights the school's dedication to providing quality education and nurturing responsible citizens.
