Powell's Church of England Primary School in Cirencester, Gloucestershire, has received an outstanding rating in its recent inspection conducted on July 9 and 10, 2024. The school has maintained this high standard since its last inspection in March 2013, which also rated it as outstanding. The school is recognized for its exceptional quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision.
Pupils at Powell's excel academically and personally, benefiting from a strong ambition shared by all staff. The school fosters an inclusive environment where all students, including disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and disabilities, can thrive. The positive experiences that pupils have across the curriculum contribute to their pride in belonging to the school. They express high satisfaction with their educational journey, which is enriched by a variety of clubs and activities that cater to diverse interests.
The behavior of pupils is exemplary, with younger children in Reception displaying motivation and eagerness to participate in learning activities. The curriculum is designed to promote curiosity, exploration, and creativity, allowing pupils to collaborate effectively. The school emphasizes a caring atmosphere where pupils support each other's well-being through roles such as peer mediators and play leaders.
The school’s success is attributed to a shared vision of high-quality education for all, with a focus on developing staff expertise. The curriculum is carefully structured to provide new experiences and eliminate barriers to achievement. Reading is prioritized from the start, with pupils engaging with a variety of texts that enhance their knowledge across subjects. The teaching of phonics is particularly effective, resulting in high levels of accuracy in reading and spelling among pupils.
The wider curriculum is meticulously designed, identifying key knowledge and concepts that enable pupils to progress and succeed. The integration of knowledge across subjects is evident, as seen in the refined geography curriculum that incorporates skills from science and mathematics. Published outcomes for the school are significantly above the national average, reflecting the effectiveness of the curriculum and teaching strategies.
Pupils take pride in their work, demonstrating high-quality outputs across all subjects. They are well-prepared for future educational stages, with initiatives like Aspirations Week providing insights into various career paths. Staff development is supported through external training opportunities, enhancing the overall educational experience for pupils.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. The inspection team conducted a thorough evaluation, including discussions with staff, pupils, and the governing body, to assess the school’s performance comprehensively. The positive feedback from parents and the community further underscores the school’s reputation for excellence.
Overall, Powell's Church of England Primary School exemplifies outstanding educational practices, fostering an environment where pupils can achieve their full potential academically and personally. The commitment to high standards, inclusivity, and continuous improvement positions the school as a leader in primary education within the region.
