Sherwell Valley Primary School in Torquay, Devon, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 20 and 21 February 2024. Pupils express pride in their school, highlighting the quality of learning as a key aspect of their experience. They demonstrate good behavior and feel safe within the school environment. The school fosters a calm atmosphere where pupils respond positively to staff instructions. When faced with worries, pupils know they can approach any staff member for support.
The leadership team and staff maintain high expectations for all students, which are deeply rooted in the school's values. Pupils learn essential values such as responsibility and respect in ways that are appropriate for their age. Older students take on leadership roles, applying to become prefects, environmentalists, or mental health ambassadors. Digital leaders also play a role in educating their peers about online safety, which contributes to a sense of pride and responsibility among the pupils.
The school provides a range of extracurricular clubs that cater to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Activities such as amateur dramatics, forest school, and football help students develop their skills and interests. The school has achieved notable success in sports, with pupils competing at a national level.
Under the new headteacher, significant improvements have been made to the curriculum, raising expectations for pupil achievement. The school has implemented a well-structured synthetic phonics program that enables children to learn to read effectively. Staff training has been prioritized to ensure that all teachers are confident in delivering phonics lessons, leading to high-quality instruction and the quick identification of any gaps in pupils' knowledge. As a result, pupils are becoming fluent readers, engaging with books that match their abilities.
The school has cultivated a strong reading culture, introducing children to a diverse range of books from the early years. Adults read to children with enthusiasm, and curriculum-linked books help pupils discuss and remember what they have read. This approach has fostered a love for reading among students.
The school is proactive in identifying the needs of pupils with special educational needs, ensuring that appropriate support is in place. Staff effectively adapt lessons so that these pupils can access the same curriculum as their peers. The curriculum is designed to build knowledge sequentially from Nursery to Year 6, with connections made across different subjects to enhance learning.
While the school excels in reading and mathematics, some subjects in the wider curriculum require further development and implementation to match the high standards set by school leaders. This has resulted in some gaps in pupils' knowledge in these areas. The early years curriculum is well-planned, providing stimulating activities that promote fine motor skills and vocabulary development.
Pupils are taught to take responsibility for their actions, leading to respectful and courteous behavior. Attendance is high, reflecting pupils' eagerness to come to school. Staff feel valued and supported by school leaders, who prioritize their well-being and professional development.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with a focus on developing a well-rounded curriculum that prepares pupils for the next stage of their education. Overall, Sherwell Valley Primary School continues to provide a good educational experience for its pupils, with a strong emphasis on personal development and academic achievement.
