Hempsted Church of England Primary School in Gloucester has recently undergone an inspection, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on March 28 and 29, 2023, marking the first routine evaluation since the school was last assessed 15 years ago, when it received an outstanding rating. The school has since been exempt from routine inspections due to legal provisions, leading to a longer gap between evaluations. The current report reflects the school’s performance under the latest inspection framework and considers any changes that may have occurred since the last assessment.
Pupils at Hempsted enjoy a positive learning environment characterized by friendliness, safety, and a welcoming atmosphere. The school’s leadership has fostered a nurturing environment for both students and their families, promoting the vision of growing together in God’s love. This ethos is evident in the way pupils value each other and demonstrate the school’s core values of compassion, thankfulness, and friendship. The school’s curriculum is continually reviewed and improved to ensure that it meets the educational needs of all pupils, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills for success.
The school has established a strong focus on reading, beginning in Reception Year, where children develop phonics knowledge and reading skills. This emphasis continues through Key Stage 1, with staff effectively matching pupils to appropriate reading materials to enhance their confidence and fluency. However, there is a noted need for more opportunities for children in Reception to apply their phonics knowledge in writing. The curriculum is designed to be inclusive, with adaptations made to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they achieve well.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. The curriculum in some subjects lacks clarity regarding essential knowledge that pupils should learn and revisit, which can hinder the depth of understanding. Leaders are aware of this and are working to enhance the curriculum by identifying key knowledge components and assessing pupils’ understanding at each stage of their learning. Additionally, there is a need to provide more opportunities for early years children to practice their writing skills, as this is currently limited.
The school’s leadership is committed to fostering high morale among staff, who feel valued and listened to. This positive atmosphere contributes to effective governance, with governors holding leaders accountable for the educational outcomes of pupils. Relationships between staff and pupils are strong, promoting calm and orderly behavior throughout the school. Pupils are encouraged to take on roles of responsibility, such as school councillors and house captains, which they value and enjoy.
Hempsted Church of England Primary School also emphasizes personal and social development through a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports clubs and cultural experiences. These opportunities help pupils build confidence and broaden their understanding of different cultures and perspectives. The school actively engages with the community, encouraging pupils to participate in initiatives such as tree planting and charity fundraising.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with leaders ensuring that staff are well-trained to identify and respond to potential risks. Pupils are educated about safety, including online and road safety, and know whom to approach with concerns. Overall, Hempsted Church of England Primary School provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, with a clear commitment to continuous improvement in educational quality and personal development.
