Avening Primary School, located in the rural village of Avening, Gloucestershire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 6, 2020. The school is committed to fostering a positive environment where pupils embody the values of respect, engagement, aspiration, collaboration, and hope, collectively known as REACH. These values are visibly represented on their jumpers, and students demonstrate a strong understanding of their significance in daily interactions, particularly through initiatives like the reading buddy scheme, which promotes kindness and respect among peers.
The school provides a nurturing atmosphere where pupils feel safe and secure. They report that bullying is not tolerated and is addressed promptly, contributing to a harmonious environment for both students and staff. The Reception Year lays a solid foundation for children, who exhibit positive behavior and support one another, fostering a culture of encouragement. This positive attitude towards learning persists throughout the school, enabling pupils to build on their prior knowledge and acquire essential skills for future success.
Leadership at Avening Primary School is dedicated to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive the best possible education. Leaders have carefully considered the curriculum, ensuring that it is well-structured and sequenced to accommodate the diverse abilities and backgrounds of students. Engaging activities beyond the classroom, such as carol singing and theatre visits, enrich the educational experience and contribute to pupils' overall development.
Teachers at the school maintain high expectations for student learning, which is evident in their planning and delivery of lessons. They create sequences of work that help pupils recall previously learned material and apply knowledge across different subjects. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in mathematics, where some foundational concepts may not be firmly established, leading to a few pupils not achieving their full potential.
Reading is a central focus at Avening Primary School, with teachers prioritizing it and making it enjoyable for all students. The school library is well-utilized and inviting, reflecting the positive attitude towards reading that permeates the school culture. Pupils are enthusiastic about their favorite books and authors, and the daily phonics program in the Reception Year is designed to instill a love for reading from an early age. Nonetheless, some teachers need to clarify when to introduce new sounds or words, which can hinder a few pupils' progress in reading fluency.
The school also emphasizes the importance of developing pupils' understanding of the world around them. Through participation in the school council, students learn about democracy and how to communicate their ideas effectively. The REACH values help pupils relate their learning to various world faiths and cultures, preparing them for life in modern Britain.
Safeguarding measures at Avening Primary School are effective, with leaders and governors prioritizing the safety and well-being of all pupils. Staff are well-trained in safeguarding procedures and act swiftly to protect students, collaborating with external agencies when necessary. Pupils feel secure and are aware of safety protocols, including what to do in emergencies.
Despite the school's strengths, there are areas that require attention. In some curriculum areas, particularly mathematics, the goals set are not sufficiently precise, which can result in some pupils not reaching their highest potential. Leaders must ensure that the curriculum outlines the incremental steps necessary for pupils to achieve ambitious objectives. Additionally, the phonics program needs to be more responsive to the individual needs of pupils, particularly those who require additional support to catch up.
Overall, Avening Primary School continues to provide a good education, characterized by a supportive environment, strong leadership, and a commitment to fostering a love of learning among its pupils. With targeted improvements in specific areas, the school can further enhance its educational offerings and ensure that all students achieve their best.
