Stalbridge Church of England Primary School has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 13 and 14, 2023. The school is characterized by a welcoming atmosphere where new pupils quickly feel at home. Its core values of believe, discover, and aspire are integral to both the curriculum and the overall school environment. The leadership team demonstrates a strong commitment to ensuring that pupils acquire the necessary knowledge and skills for future success in their educational journey and beyond.
Pupils at Stalbridge are eager learners who strive for excellence. They exhibit courteous and kind behavior, maintaining a positive atmosphere in lessons and throughout the school. Instances of low-level disruption are rare, and when they do occur, teachers effectively manage the situation. The school has established a supportive environment for those pupils who may struggle with behavior, ensuring they receive the help they need. Pupils are aware of what constitutes bullying and report that it is infrequent. They feel safe at school and have a good attendance record.
The school encourages pupils to take on responsibilities, such as serving on the school council, and they take pride in their contributions to school life. Initiatives like organizing toy boxes for playground use and fundraising for charitable causes demonstrate their commitment to community and social responsibility. Older pupils also play a vital role in supporting younger students as playground buddies.
The curriculum at Stalbridge is well-structured and sequenced, allowing pupils to build on their learning effectively. For instance, history is taught chronologically, which aids pupils in contextualizing their knowledge. In computing, skills learned in earlier years are applied in more complex tasks later on. However, there is a need for leaders to clearly define the essential components that pupils should learn in each subject to facilitate better knowledge retention over time.
Phonics instruction begins in Reception, with teachers adhering closely to the phonics scheme. This structured approach enables children to quickly develop reading and writing skills. Regular assessments help identify those at risk of falling behind, ensuring timely support. The enjoyment of reading is fostered through a variety of texts read aloud by adults, enhancing vocabulary development.
In mathematics, teachers effectively explain new concepts, and pupils are encouraged to use appropriate mathematical language from an early age. The teaching method breaks down learning into manageable steps, allowing pupils to practice and revisit previous knowledge. By Year 6, students demonstrate competence in mathematics and can articulate their understanding.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are well-supported, participating fully in the curriculum alongside their peers. The school is currently adapting its behavior management approach to better support pupils, although communication regarding these changes has not been sufficiently clear, leading to some uncertainty among staff and parents.
Stalbridge Primary School promotes the development of well-rounded individuals who understand the importance of health, fitness, and safety. Opportunities for sports coaching and access to a school swimming pool enrich the pupils' experiences. The school community is engaged in discussions about future aspirations, with older pupils considering careers in fields such as astrophysics and computer science.
Staff report that leadership has made positive adjustments to help manage their workload, and governors actively support the school's vision while also providing necessary challenges. Attendance rates are improving, reflecting the effectiveness of leadership efforts.
The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with regular training ensuring staff are knowledgeable about current practices. Leaders work closely with external agencies to address any concerns, demonstrating a commitment to pupil safety. Overall, Stalbridge Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
