Stoborough Church of England Primary School, located in Wareham, Dorset, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 7 and 8, 2023. The school is deeply integrated into the local community, with leaders actively promoting local culture through educational trips, such as visits to the Dorchester Roman Town House and learning about the historical significance of Wareham’s Royal Saxon sword. This engagement helps pupils appreciate their surroundings and fosters a sense of belonging.
The school maintains high expectations for behavior, encapsulated in the motto of being ready, respectful, and safe. Pupils exhibit commendable behavior, showing attentiveness in lessons and politeness in their interactions. Incidents of bullying are taken seriously by the leadership, contributing to a safe and supportive environment where pupils feel secure and happy. The school’s values of confidence, compassion, and curiosity are consistently modeled by both staff and students, reinforcing a positive school culture.
Pupils are encouraged to express their opinions and take on leadership roles, such as participating in the eco-team and serving as pupil governors. This involvement empowers them and ensures their voices are heard in school matters. The school’s commitment to fostering a sense of responsibility and community engagement is evident in these initiatives.
Leaders at Stoborough are ambitious for their students, aiming to cultivate a love of learning and a zest for life. The curriculum is designed to be engaging and relevant, allowing pupils to explore knowledge beyond their immediate environment. Reading is prioritized as a fundamental skill, with a phonics-based approach implemented from the start of a pupil's education. Staff are well-trained, ensuring that reading materials align with the sounds being taught, which helps pupils develop strong fluency and comprehension skills. The enthusiasm for reading is evident, with pupils enjoying daily story sessions and library visits.
Mathematics instruction is also robust, with leaders utilizing assessment data to tailor the curriculum to meet pupils' needs. Staff model appropriate mathematical vocabulary and encourage pupils to apply their skills in problem-solving contexts. This approach fosters confidence in their mathematical abilities.
While the school excels in many areas, there are some subjects where curriculum improvements are still recent. In subjects like history, pupils have not yet developed a secure chronological understanding, which affects their ability to relate different time periods. Additionally, some foundation subjects lack consistent assessment practices, making it challenging for teachers to gauge pupils' understanding effectively.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is a priority, with leaders ensuring that staff are equipped to identify and assist these students. The curriculum is adapted to provide appropriate resources, enabling all children to thrive.
The school also emphasizes the importance of pupils' wider development, encouraging discussions on local and global issues. Pupils are taught to challenge injustice and express their views on matters that concern them, fostering a strong moral compass and an understanding of diversity.
Governors play an active role in the school’s improvement efforts, working closely with leaders to monitor progress and support staff well-being. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to identify and report concerns, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Overall, Stoborough Church of England Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong focus on community involvement, high expectations for behavior, and a commitment to fostering a love of learning among its pupils.
