Lympstone Church of England Primary School is a welcoming and friendly institution located in Exmouth, Devon. The school has a strong community spirit, where pupils feel valued and respected. The pride that both pupils and staff take in their school is evident, and parents express overwhelming positivity about the educational environment. The school’s values are deeply embedded in its culture, promoting respect among pupils and staff alike. New students are welcomed warmly, allowing them to settle in quickly. The behavior of pupils is commendable, as they support one another during play and in lessons, demonstrating a collaborative learning atmosphere.
Pupils feel safe and well cared for within the school. Incidents of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, staff are quick to address them. The early years provision is particularly strong, with children quickly becoming confident and inquisitive learners. They exhibit a love for learning, especially in reading and problem-solving, and they actively engage in creative thinking and collaboration. Leadership encourages pupils to take on responsibilities, with older students serving as buddies to younger ones. The school offers a diverse range of opportunities for pupils to explore their talents and interests, including sports and community involvement.
The headteacher has shown great determination in driving improvements within the school. Leaders, including governors, share a clear and ambitious vision that is embraced by the staff. The curriculum has been strengthened, particularly in mathematics and early reading, resulting in positive outcomes for pupils. The school provides a broad and balanced curriculum, with a purposeful learning environment that supports effective learning. The early years curriculum is ambitious, with carefully planned activities that encourage exploration and discovery.
While the curriculum is well-designed in many subjects, there are areas where it could be further developed. In subjects outside the core areas, the essential knowledge that pupils need to learn is not always clearly defined or sequenced, which can hinder their ability to recall and build upon their knowledge confidently. Leaders are aware of this and are actively working to enhance the curriculum to ensure that all essential knowledge is clearly identified.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with a systematic approach to teaching that has been effectively implemented. Staff are well-trained in the reading curriculum, enabling pupils to quickly learn decoding skills and develop fluency. Regular assessments help identify pupils who may need additional support, ensuring that all students can become proficient readers.
The school is attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Their needs are identified early, allowing for appropriate support to be put in place. Staff are well-informed about effective strategies to assist these pupils in their learning journey.
Personal development is also a focus, with the school fostering strong links with the local church to enhance pupils' understanding of faith and community. The personal, social, and health education program is evolving, although there are areas where content could be better timed to meet pupils' needs. Pupils are encouraged to engage in discussions about global issues and demonstrate a solid understanding of British values.
The safeguarding arrangements at Lympstone are effective, with staff receiving up-to-date training and being well-prepared to address any concerns regarding pupil welfare. Leaders are proactive in seeking support for vulnerable pupils and their families, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance. Overall, Lympstone Church of England Primary School is a nurturing environment that promotes academic and personal growth, with a commitment to continuous improvement in all areas of education.
