Thorverton Church of England Primary School, located in Exeter, Devon, has recently undergone an ungraded inspection, with the outcome confirming that the school maintains its overall judgement of good. The evidence collected during the inspection suggests that the school could potentially achieve an outstanding rating if a graded inspection were conducted at this time. The next inspection is anticipated to be a graded one.
The school is characterized by a positive and nurturing environment where pupils are kind and polite. The core values of love, wisdom, hope, community, and dignity are evident in the interactions among pupils and staff. These values are instilled in students, helping them understand the significance of fairness and equality, while also emphasizing the importance of equity within the school culture.
Pupils appreciate the diverse range of extracurricular activities available, including cricket, rugby, dance, and gardening, which allow them to explore their interests and talents. Opportunities for social interaction with peers from other schools in the federation further enhance their social development. The school also prioritizes cultural enrichment, providing experiences such as live symphony orchestra performances and visits to diverse cultural sites, which deepen pupils' understanding of various aspects of the curriculum.
Parental feedback through Ofsted Parent View indicates a high level of satisfaction, with all responding parents affirming that their children are happy and thriving at the school.
School leaders demonstrate ambition for all pupils and have taken decisive actions to address areas for improvement identified in previous assessments, particularly in writing and phonics. The curriculum is well-structured, ensuring that pupils progressively build knowledge and skills from early years through to their final years at the school.
Reading is a key focus, with a robust phonics curriculum in place. Staff are well-trained and knowledgeable, enabling them to deliver high-quality phonics instruction. Pupils are introduced to a rich selection of age-appropriate storybooks, fostering a love for reading and storytelling from an early age. This approach not only enhances their reading skills but also encourages creativity as they begin to craft their own narratives.
Pupils exhibit strong learning outcomes across the curriculum, demonstrating a deep understanding of subjects such as history, where they can articulate the significance of various Roman leaders and connect different historical periods. The quality of their written work reflects the high standards set by school leaders.
The school environment is conducive to learning, with pupils displaying positive attitudes and minimal disruption. They are aware of the expectations placed upon them and respond well to the high standards upheld by staff, contributing to a calm and focused atmosphere.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is highly effective, with the school proactively identifying potential barriers to learning and making necessary adaptations to the curriculum. This ensures that all pupils can access the learning opportunities provided.
The personal development curriculum is a notable strength, emphasizing the importance of preparing pupils to be respectful and active citizens. Pupils gain a comprehensive understanding of British values, including democracy, and engage in school council activities that promote their involvement in school life and charitable initiatives.
Governance and leadership within the federation are strong, with effective collaboration that supports and challenges school leaders. Staff express pride in their work at the school, contributing to a positive and cohesive school community.
Overall, the inspection highlights the effectiveness of safeguarding arrangements, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school continues to demonstrate a commitment to excellence in education, fostering a supportive and enriching learning experience for its students.
