Decoy Primary School in Newton Abbot, Devon, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 17 and 18, 2023. The school is characterized by its inclusive environment and strong family ethos, where leaders maintain high expectations for all students. Pupils respond positively to these expectations, demonstrating hard work and a willingness to act on guidance from adults. This commitment to learning results in strong achievements across most areas of the curriculum.
Students at Decoy Primary are well aware of the school's 'golden rule' and consistently treat one another with respect and kindness. They enjoy each other's company and exhibit courteous behavior towards all. In instances of bullying, staff address issues promptly and sensitively, ensuring a supportive atmosphere. The school offers a variety of extracurricular clubs, including football, coding, and choir, which pupils actively participate in. Additionally, students benefit from educational trips that enhance their learning experiences.
The school fosters a sense of community involvement among its pupils, who take pride in their responsibilities, such as serving as playtime leaders. They engage in fundraising activities for both local and national charities, reflecting their commitment to helping others. Feedback from parents is largely positive, with many expressing appreciation for the school's nurturing environment where children feel accepted and celebrated.
The recent leadership changes have brought about a clear vision for the school, with the new headteacher quickly establishing an accurate understanding of its strengths and areas for improvement. Governors play an active role in challenging school leaders regarding the effectiveness of their actions. Staff members report high levels of support and consideration from leadership, although some subject leaders are still acclimating to their roles, which may affect their ability to assess the effectiveness of their plans.
The curriculum at Decoy Primary is engaging and well-structured, ensuring that learning builds on prior knowledge from the early years. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are accurately identified and receive the necessary support to access the curriculum effectively. Reading is a priority, with pupils exposed to a diverse range of high-quality texts that encourage exploration of various literary genres. Early years staff focus on developing children's speaking and listening skills, laying a strong foundation for literacy.
Teachers demonstrate secure subject knowledge and effectively plan lessons that allow pupils to revisit previous learning before introducing new concepts. The quality of work produced by pupils across the curriculum is commendable, particularly in subjects like art, where they develop essential skills. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all subjects receive consistent feedback to address gaps in understanding.
Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning, supported by a range of opportunities in the early years that enhance their communication and language skills. The school promotes personal development effectively, teaching resilience and independence while celebrating achievements in assemblies. Pupils are encouraged to participate in leadership roles, contributing positively to the school and local community.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with pupils aware of how to keep themselves safe both in person and online. Staff receive regular training, and there is a strong culture of vigilance regarding pupil safety. The school has effective processes for recruiting staff, ensuring a safe environment for all.
To further improve, the school should focus on enhancing the precision of teachers' assessments across the wider curriculum to better identify and address gaps in pupils' understanding. Additionally, leaders should ensure that new subject leaders develop a comprehensive understanding of their subjects to monitor pupil progress effectively. Overall, Decoy Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
