Brampford Speke Church of England Primary School, located in Exeter, Devon, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 29, 2022. The school is characterized by its small size, which fosters a close-knit community where pupils feel valued and supported. Students express pride in their school, highlighting the diverse opportunities and experiences provided by the leadership. Participation in local sports events and community links contribute to the pupils' confidence and resilience. The supportive environment encourages older students to act as role models for younger peers, enhancing the overall school culture.
Pupils demonstrate politeness, respect, and a welcoming attitude towards one another. Classrooms are described as calm and conducive to learning, with minimal disruption from poor behavior. The school has a strong anti-bullying culture, and pupils trust the staff to address any concerns they may have. Parents appreciate the nurturing approach of the school leaders and the dedication of the staff to their children's education.
The curriculum at Brampford Speke is ambitious and designed to cater to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The early years curriculum is particularly effective, with a focus on problem-solving and creative thinking. This foundation prepares children well for their subsequent education. Leaders have carefully sequenced the learning in most subjects, allowing pupils to build knowledge progressively. The practical elements of subjects like geography and science are well-received, and pupils understand the importance of key knowledge in retaining what they learn.
Reading is prioritized across the school, with a recent improvement in the early reading curriculum. Phonics instruction begins in Reception, enabling children to read books suited to their abilities. Teachers monitor progress closely, ensuring that those who struggle receive timely support. The mathematics curriculum is also well-structured, allowing pupils to develop their understanding effectively.
Despite the strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects in the wider curriculum are not as well embedded, leading to inconsistencies in learning experiences. Leaders recognize the need to ensure that the curriculum is fully implemented across all subjects so that pupils can retain knowledge over time. Additionally, while leaders have high expectations for all pupils, these expectations are not consistently applied by all staff, resulting in variability in the learning experience.
The school has a strong safeguarding culture, with effective arrangements in place to ensure pupil safety. Staff receive regular training, and there is a commitment to learning from any safeguarding concerns. Pupils are educated about personal safety and online safety as part of the curriculum, which encourages them to engage in discussions about their choices.
In summary, Brampford Speke Church of England Primary School is a good school that provides a supportive and nurturing environment for its pupils. The leadership is committed to delivering a high-quality education, although there are areas that require further development to ensure consistency across the curriculum. The school’s focus on reading and mathematics, along with its strong community ties, contributes positively to the pupils' overall development and well-being.
