St Briavels Parochial Church of England Primary School, located in Gloucestershire, was inspected on 27 and 28 April 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, reflecting a positive environment for learning and development. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good. The school had previously received an outstanding rating during its last inspection, which took place 11 years prior, under a different inspection framework.
The school community is characterized by pride and respect among pupils, who appreciate the diverse curriculum and express enthusiasm for their learning experiences. They feel well-prepared for future educational stages and value the supportive relationships they have with staff, who prioritize their well-being and mental health. Inclusivity is a key aspect of the school, with staff ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are fully integrated into school life. Pupils report feeling safe and happy, with a low incidence of bullying, and parents generally agree that their children are well cared for.
The school has established a leadership team focused on curriculum development, with subject leaders actively considering what knowledge pupils should acquire. This approach has led to a coherent knowledge-building process that benefits all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs. Leaders maintain high expectations and provide strong support for teachers, while governors are well-informed and actively involved in monitoring school priorities.
Despite the positive aspects, the school acknowledges that the curriculum developments are still in their early stages, leading to some inconsistencies in teaching approaches. Leaders are aware that monitoring needs to be more robust to ensure a consistent implementation of the curriculum across all classes. Additionally, while the early years provision is effective, assessment practices in foundation subjects for key stages one and two require improvement to better track pupil progress and adapt teaching accordingly.
Reading is a priority at St Briavels, with children receiving phonics instruction from the outset. The school provides targeted support for older pupils who may be struggling with reading, ensuring they can catch up quickly. The mathematics curriculum is also well-structured, allowing pupils to build on their prior knowledge effectively.
Pupils are taught about safety and mental health, and they learn to appreciate diverse beliefs and relationships. This education prepares them for life beyond school. While pupils generally conduct themselves well, there are times when expectations regarding attitudes to learning are not clear, which can affect focus in the classroom. Leaders are working on strategies to address this issue and align behavior management approaches with the school's Christian values.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with leaders prioritizing pupil safety and well-being. Staff are trained to report concerns, and the school collaborates with external agencies to provide necessary support for pupils and their families. Overall, while St Briavels Parochial Church of England Primary School demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring consistency in curriculum delivery and assessment practices.
