Pinhoe Church of England Primary School and Nursery in Exeter has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on October 17 and 18, 2023. The school is committed to its mission of fostering a community where all members feel included and valued. This is evident in the way pupils embrace diversity, welcoming refugees and newcomers with open arms. The school promotes a sense of belonging, and students express pride in the inclusive environment, stating that the school accepts everyone.
Pupils report feeling happy and safe, with younger children quickly adapting to school life and forming positive relationships with staff. The supportive atmosphere created by caring adults allows students to focus on their learning and strive for success. The school has high aspirations for its pupils, encouraging them to think big and become agents of change. Opportunities for leadership, such as participating in a pupil parliament, enable students to contribute meaningfully to school life and understand fundamental British values.
The leadership team has worked diligently to develop a curriculum that meets national expectations and is ambitious for all students. They have carefully considered what pupils need to learn and the sequence of instruction. Staff effectively use assessments to gauge student retention and understanding, providing additional support where necessary. The consistent approach to teaching early reading has proven effective, with all staff confident in phonics instruction. Pupils who require extra help receive targeted support, and the reading materials align with their learning.
The school ensures that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are fully included in school activities. While most learning targets for these pupils are well-matched to their needs, there are instances where targets lack precision, hindering progress. The early years provision is strong, with children encouraged to express their feelings, which aids in managing their behavior. The nurturing environment offers various opportunities for developing motor skills.
Attendance is a priority, and while persistent absenteeism remains a challenge, the school actively monitors and addresses barriers to attendance. Most pupils arrive ready to learn and exhibit positive attitudes towards their education. However, there are occasional instances of low-level disruption that can affect the learning environment. The school is working to ensure that all staff maintain high expectations for behavior and are equipped to manage disruptions effectively.
The personal development curriculum enhances pupils' aspirations, exposing them to various professions and encouraging creativity through activities like designing and selling products. The school offers a range of extracurricular opportunities, including music and nature appreciation, which pupils value highly. Governance has played a crucial role in supporting school leaders through recent changes, and staff appreciate the professional development opportunities available to them.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To improve further, the school needs to ensure that targets for pupils with special educational needs are precise and closely aligned with their individual needs. Additionally, addressing low-level disruptions consistently across the staff will enhance the overall learning experience for all students. The school continues to strive for excellence, building on its strengths while addressing areas for improvement.
