Offwell Church of England Primary School, located in Devon, was inspected on November 15 and 16, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school emphasizes the motto of Be well, Learn well, and Live well, which is instilled in pupils from their early years. This approach fosters a positive learning environment where children develop essential habits for success, such as regular attendance. The school promotes good character among its pupils, who are noted for their politeness and consideration for others. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they occur, school leaders address them effectively, ensuring that pupils receive the necessary support to resolve conflicts. The relationships between pupils and staff are built on trust, allowing students to feel safe and cared for.
Pupils at Offwell are encouraged to take on leadership roles, participating in the school council and various clubs, which helps them develop their talents and interests. The school provides opportunities for involvement in sports tournaments and other extracurricular activities, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience. The curriculum is ambitious, with leaders focused on ensuring that pupils learn effectively. They have implemented a strong early reading program, which has shown positive results in helping children develop their reading skills from the Reception Year. Staff engage pupils with imaginative texts and ensure that reading materials are well-matched to their abilities, fostering a love for reading.
Despite some pupils in Key Stage 1 falling behind in reading, the school has made concerted efforts to support these students, enabling them to catch up quickly. Most subjects are taught successfully, and pupils demonstrate excitement in sharing their knowledge. However, there are a few subjects where the depth of learning could be improved, as some pupils struggle with misconceptions and retention of essential information. Leaders are aware of this and are working to enhance the monitoring of pupils' learning across the curriculum.
The school is also reviewing its support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. While most of these pupils learn successfully alongside their peers, there are instances where higher expectations could lead to even greater achievements. The conduct of pupils is commendable, with cooperative play during breaks and active participation in class discussions. Teachers effectively manage low-level disruptions, ensuring a focused learning environment.
The personal, social, and health education curriculum is well-structured, teaching pupils about safety and encouraging discussions on various perspectives. The governing body provides valuable support and challenge to school leaders, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the school. Safeguarding measures are robust, with regular training for staff and effective systems for reporting concerns. Leaders work closely with families and local safeguarding partners to ensure the well-being of all pupils.
To improve further, the school needs to ensure that all pupils learn the intended curriculum thoroughly and consistently, particularly in subjects where knowledge retention is lacking. Additionally, there should be a focus on raising expectations for pupils with special educational needs to help them achieve their full potential. Overall, Offwell Church of England Primary School provides a supportive and effective learning environment, with a strong commitment to the personal and academic development of its pupils.
