Steam Mills Primary School, located in Cinderford, Gloucestershire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 2, 2022. The school is characterized by a caring and inclusive environment where leaders demonstrate integrity in their efforts to secure positive outcomes for all pupils. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, designed to prepare students for their futures while focusing on key drivers such as aspiration, communication, and knowledge about the world. This approach helps maintain high expectations throughout the school.
Staff collaboration is a notable strength, with teachers supporting one another by sharing skills and expertise, fostering a friendly and supportive atmosphere. This teamwork contributes to the success of pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, who achieve well both academically and personally. From the outset, high expectations are established, particularly in the pre-school setting, where children engage in various activities that promote learning and development. Staff interactions during playtime support children’s learning, ensuring they are well-prepared for their transition into Reception.
Respect is a fundamental theme within the school, promoting positive attitudes and tolerance among pupils. The well-structured curriculum makes learning engaging, leading to strong pupil engagement and effort. Students feel secure and confident that staff will address any issues related to bullying or friendships. The leadership team is ambitious and clear-thinking, with governors providing strong support and maintaining an accurate understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement. Professional development opportunities for staff are extensive, including collaboration with colleagues from a local school.
The curriculum is relevant and ambitious, with well-thought-out learning experiences across subjects. Personal, social, and health education includes discussions about children’s rights, enhancing pupils' understanding of important social issues. Pupils exhibit politeness and confidence, enjoying their time at school and demonstrating good behavior during lessons and transitions.
A strong reading culture exists within the school, with pupils actively using the library and engaging with high-quality texts that extend their vocabulary and understanding. The structured phonics curriculum supports early readers, although some pupils who struggle with reading do not receive sufficient opportunities for practice with adults, which can hinder their progress. Leaders are aware of this issue and are working to ensure that all pupils receive the necessary support to become successful readers.
In the early years, children benefit from stimulating resources and attentive staff, which help develop their language and social skills. The nurturing environment fosters confidence and happiness among children, laying a solid foundation for their future learning. The curriculum effectively builds on prior knowledge, particularly in mathematics, where pupils articulate their problem-solving processes using appropriate vocabulary.
Teachers assess pupil learning and adapt instruction as needed, resulting in strong achievement across the board. The school is committed to including all pupils in every aspect of school life, providing additional support for disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safety and well-being. Leaders ensure that any concerns are promptly addressed, and staff are well-trained to recognize and report safeguarding issues.
Overall, Steam Mills Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive and inclusive environment, with clear areas for improvement identified to enhance reading support for struggling pupils.
