Sandford St Martin’s Church of England Voluntary-Aided Primary School in Dorset has undergone a recent inspection, which took place on the 1st and 2nd of November 2022. The school has been rated as good overall, with specific commendations in various areas. The quality of education, leadership and management, and early years provision have all been rated as good, while behaviour and attitudes have been deemed outstanding. This marks a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement.
Pupils at Sandford St Martin’s take pride in their school, which is characterized by its inclusive environment and strong Christian values. These values are integrated into daily life, fostering a sense of respect and equality among students, regardless of their backgrounds. The school promotes a strong moral purpose, encouraging pupils to treat one another with kindness and understanding. The behaviour of pupils is exceptional, with a clear enthusiasm for learning evident from their early years through to their final years at the school. They engage actively in lessons, ask questions, and participate confidently in discussions, demonstrating respect for their peers and teachers.
The school offers a wide range of enrichment opportunities and extracurricular activities, which are well-received by both pupils and parents. This variety ensures that there is something for everyone, catering for diverse interests and talents. The leadership team has a clear and ambitious vision for the school, engaging effectively with all stakeholders to ensure that this vision is understood and shared.
The curriculum at Sandford St Martin’s is coherent and well-structured, with leaders outlining the knowledge they want pupils to acquire as they progress. In subjects like science, specific vocabulary and content are clearly defined, although there are areas where this clarity could be improved. Subject leaders are passionate and knowledgeable, and they work diligently to ensure that the curriculum is implemented effectively across the school. Teachers demonstrate good subject knowledge and are well-equipped to teach the early years curriculum, ensuring that young children learn effectively.
Pupils receive effective phonics instruction, which helps them develop reading fluency and confidence. Older pupils enjoy applying their reading skills to various texts, enhancing their learning experience. The school is also committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that they can learn alongside their peers and experience success.
Governance at the school has improved, with governors actively promoting school improvement and holding leaders accountable. They have established strong procedures to monitor the school’s performance and provide constructive challenges to leadership. Staff members feel supported by the leadership team, appreciating the commitment to their well-being and professional development.
The safeguarding arrangements at Sandford St Martin’s are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns. Leaders collaborate with external agencies to provide necessary support for pupils and families, ensuring a safe environment for all students. The school is proactive in addressing local risks and adapting the curriculum to address relevant issues.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to ensure that the knowledge outlined in the curriculum is clear and specific across all subjects, allowing pupils to build on their existing knowledge effectively. Additionally, a consistent approach to teaching across all subjects is necessary to enhance the overall learning experience for pupils. Overall, Sandford St Martin’s Church of England Voluntary-Aided Primary School is making significant strides in providing a high-quality education for its pupils.
