Elmbridge Primary School, located in Gloucester, Gloucestershire, has recently undergone an ungraded inspection on 26 and 27 September 2023. The school has maintained its overall judgement of good, with evidence suggesting that it could achieve an outstanding rating if a graded inspection were conducted. The next inspection is expected to be a graded one.
The school prioritizes exceptional pastoral support, ensuring that pupils feel safe, secure, and ready to learn. Strong relationships between parents and staff significantly benefit pupils' development. Every pupil can identify five trusted adults within the school who are available to help them, highlighting the school's commitment to well-being as its highest priority.
Elmbridge Primary School has developed an ambitious curriculum tailored to meet the needs of its pupils, with high expectations for both academic and personal development. Pupils understand the importance of practice in improving their knowledge and skills. They are well-versed in fundamental British values and actively engage in their school community. For instance, Year 5 pupils train as peer mediators, and some progress to become 'helping hands' in Year 6, supporting younger pupils in their play and resolving friendship issues.
The school offers a diverse range of enrichment opportunities that help pupils develop essential life skills, including first aid. Pupils are educated on maintaining physical and mental health, enjoying activities like mindful moments and running on the Fit 15 track. They also learn to grow food in the school garden, which they can cook in the shake and bake room.
Leaders and staff at Elmbridge Primary School are aware of the school's improvement priorities. Governors diligently monitor the impact of the school's actions to ensure a high-quality education and personal development for pupils and staff. The school has a clear plan for ongoing curriculum development, ensuring that subject leaders and staff are well-equipped to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.
The curriculum is meticulously designed, beginning in the early years, where staff quickly get to know the children. They effectively use their knowledge of children's strengths and interests to adapt teaching and provision. For example, early years pupils practice important skills through mini-me jobs. Individual development areas are swiftly identified and addressed across all year groups.
Staff promote early language development effectively, nurturing children's love for words, rhythm, and rhyme. The school is committed to ensuring that every pupil learns to read well, with staff possessing secure phonics knowledge to identify those needing extra help. Reading materials are matched to pupils' phonics knowledge, supporting fluency and comprehension.
Pupils demonstrate a solid understanding of the curriculum, making connections between concepts to retain important knowledge and skills. They engage in discussions about healthy bodies, minds, and relationships, emphasizing fairness and kindness. Year 6 pupils are encouraged to discuss their aspirations and explore work experience opportunities, fostering independence and confidence from an early age.
The school has clear expectations for pupil behavior, with staff supporting them in making positive choices. Routines are well established, allowing pupils to settle quickly into learning. Bullying is not tolerated, and the positive relationships between staff and pupils are reflected in the overall school environment.
The safeguarding arrangements at Elmbridge Primary School are effective, ensuring a safe and supportive atmosphere for all pupils. This inspection marks the first routine evaluation since the COVID-19 pandemic, and the inspectors took the pandemic's impact into account during their assessment. The school continues to demonstrate a commitment to providing a high-quality education and nurturing environment for its pupils.
