St Andrew's Bulmer Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School has recently undergone an inspection, and the findings are promising. The school has been rated as Good across several key areas, reflecting the hard work and dedication of the leadership team, staff, and students.
The executive headteacher has established a strong leadership team, effectively utilizing expertise from both St Andrew's and its federated partner, St Giles' Primary School. This collaborative approach has led to rapid improvements in teaching, learning, and assessment. The school has successfully addressed previous areas for improvement, including attendance, which is now closer to the national average.
The quality of teaching is consistently good, with most pupils making strong progress. The curriculum is well-planned and engaging, offering a wide range of subjects, including art, music, and science. However, there is a need for more consistent reinforcement of basic skills, such as handwriting and spelling, to ensure all pupils achieve their full potential.
Pupils at St Andrew's demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning and exhibit good behaviour both in lessons and during playtime. The school environment is nurturing, with a strong emphasis on the well-being of each child. Relationships between staff and pupils are strong, fostering a sense of safety and belonging.
Current pupils are showing good progress, with an upward trajectory in attainment evident in their work and assessments. The school has made significant strides in supporting vulnerable pupils, including those with special educational needs and disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring they are making strong progress.
The early years team provides a supportive and engaging learning environment for children, who are well-prepared for Year 1. The systematic teaching of phonics has led to improved outcomes, with children showing confidence in their reading abilities.
While the report highlights many strengths, there are areas identified for further development. Most-able pupils are not always challenged sufficiently, and there is a need for more comprehensive communication with parents regarding school developments. Additionally, ensuring high standards in all aspects of work remains a priority.
In conclusion, St Andrew's Bulmer Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School is on a positive trajectory, with effective leadership and a committed staff working towards continuous improvement. The school community can take pride in the progress made and the supportive environment fostered for all pupils. As the school continues to build on its successes, the involvement and feedback from parents will be crucial in shaping its future direction.
