Hatherop Church of England Primary School, located in Gloucestershire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 14, 2023. The school is known for its nurturing environment and strong community ties, where staff are attentive to the needs of pupils. Students feel safe and supported, allowing them to express themselves confidently. The school provides a well-structured curriculum that promotes learning from the early years through to the end of primary education. Mixed-age classes are effectively utilized to ensure that pupils build their knowledge progressively. The school is particularly attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers.
Pupils at Hatherop are described as happy, enthusiastic, and dedicated learners. They navigate the school in an orderly manner, and incidents of bullying are rare. Staff are proactive in addressing any issues that arise, fostering a trusting relationship between pupils and adults. The leadership team has developed an ambitious curriculum that engages students and is designed to build their knowledge and skills over time. The school places a strong emphasis on early reading, with phonics being introduced from the start of Reception. Teachers provide additional support to those who need it, ensuring that all pupils can keep pace with their learning.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. The curriculum currently lacks a diverse range of literature, which limits pupils' exposure to different texts and may hinder their love of reading. This gap in the curriculum could affect their preparedness for future educational stages. Additionally, while teachers effectively present information and check for understanding, there is a need for a broader selection of reading materials to enhance pupils' literary experiences.
The school promotes positive attitudes towards learning, with high expectations for behavior. Pupils are encouraged to reflect on their actions through a restorative approach when incidents occur. Hatherop offers a variety of clubs and trips that contribute to the personal development of its students, reinforcing the school’s values and encouraging respect for diverse perspectives. However, there is a noted lack of deep understanding among pupils regarding fundamental British values, such as democracy.
Governors play a strategic role in supporting the school, but there are areas where their understanding of the school's operations could be strengthened. This gap in knowledge can limit their ability to effectively challenge and support school leaders. It is essential for governors to have access to comprehensive information to fulfill their roles effectively.
The safeguarding measures in place at Hatherop are effective, with staff receiving the necessary training to protect pupils. The school conducts appropriate checks on adults working within the institution and engages with external agencies to support parents in safeguarding matters. While governors monitor some aspects of safeguarding, there is a need for more thorough oversight to ensure all elements are functioning effectively.
In summary, Hatherop Church of England Primary School is a good school with a strong community focus and effective leadership. While it provides a supportive and engaging learning environment, there are areas for improvement, particularly in expanding the literary curriculum and enhancing governors' understanding of school operations. The school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory with focused efforts on these areas.
