Highweek Community Primary and Nursery School is a welcoming institution located in Newton Abbot, Devon. The recent inspection conducted on March 21 and 22, 2023, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across all areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school fosters a culture of high expectations, encouraging all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, to achieve their best. This inclusive approach ensures that pupils learn effectively in a supportive environment.
Pupils at Highweek engage in a variety of activities that enhance their life experiences before transitioning to secondary education. They are given opportunities to take on responsibilities, such as serving as mental health advocates, which helps them develop leadership skills. The school places a strong emphasis on mental health, and pupils feel that their well-being is prioritized. Additionally, students participate in numerous trips and extracurricular activities, including sports and music clubs, which contribute to their overall development.
The relationships between pupils and staff are positive, with effective measures in place to address bullying. As a result, incidents of bullying are rare, and pupils express feeling safe and supported within the school community. The staff's responsiveness to bullying concerns fosters trust among students, who believe that any issues will be resolved promptly.
The curriculum at Highweek is ambitious and well-structured, with leaders carefully identifying essential learning objectives. Most subjects are taught effectively, with teaching methods that challenge pupils to reflect on their learning. Regular assessments help staff gauge pupils' understanding, ensuring that they build on their knowledge. However, in a few subjects, the curriculum is still being developed, and the sequencing of content requires further refinement.
Reading is prioritized throughout the school, with staff trained to deliver phonics instruction effectively. Early intervention is provided for pupils who struggle, ensuring they receive the necessary support to improve their reading skills. The school promotes a culture of reading for pleasure, encouraging pupils to share book recommendations and participate in library activities.
In the early years, children learn essential routines and engage with activities that promote exploration and discovery. The curriculum is designed to prepare them for Year 1, with a focus on language development that supports their progression through the school.
Support for pupils with special educational needs is robust, with leaders monitoring the effectiveness of teaching strategies and making necessary adjustments to the curriculum. This ensures that all pupils can achieve their potential.
The school has implemented a new behavior management approach, which is supported by staff and contributes to a positive learning environment. However, some parents have expressed concerns about communication regarding behavior management policies, indicating a need for improved engagement with families.
Highweek Community Primary and Nursery School provides a range of opportunities for pupils to broaden their experiences, including participation in national competitions and workshops with authors. The school effectively promotes pupils' spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development through various initiatives, including visits from local religious groups.
Governance is strong, with governors actively involved in supporting the school and making informed decisions. They prioritize staff well-being and workload, ensuring a collaborative approach to leadership.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong culture of safety that ensures staff are well-trained to identify and address risks. Pupils are educated on online safety and know how to seek help when needed.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement in curriculum implementation and communication with parents. Addressing these areas will further enhance the school's effectiveness and support for its community.
