Warden Hill Primary School, located in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, was inspected on 22 and 23 November 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas such as personal development receiving an outstanding rating. The school has a strong sense of community, where pupils feel proud to belong and are encouraged to be respectful, safe, and to strive for their best. This ethos is encapsulated in what pupils refer to as The Warden Hill Way, which guides their behavior and attitudes.
The leadership team, including the headteacher, has high aspirations for all pupils and has developed an ambitious curriculum that promotes responsibility and lifelong learning. Pupils actively participate in various roles within the school, such as house captains and eco warriors, demonstrating a strong sense of teamwork and belonging. The school has fostered a positive environment where pupils generally behave well, and instances of bullying are rare. Pupils express confidence in the staff's ability to address any issues, contributing to a safe and trusting atmosphere.
Parental feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many parents appreciating the dedication of the staff and the joyful environment in which their children thrive. The school engages parents through events like class assemblies and sporting fixtures, further strengthening the community ties.
The headteacher's leadership is characterized by a clear vision for success, fostering high morale among staff who feel supported in managing their workload and well-being. The governing body is actively involved, asking challenging questions to ensure continuous improvement. Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with staff using carefully selected books to inspire pupils. This focus on reading has resulted in pupils developing a love for literature and achieving high standards by the time they leave the school.
The curriculum is well-structured, with clear expectations for learning from Reception through Year Six. Leaders have broken down knowledge into manageable steps, allowing pupils to build their understanding gradually across various subjects. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all teachers adapt the curriculum effectively to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Some pupils may not be learning the intended curriculum as effectively as possible due to insufficient adaptation.
Assessment practices are utilized effectively to monitor pupil progress, and targeted support is provided to help pupils keep up. Nonetheless, the quality of written work produced by pupils can vary, and not all staff consistently address this issue promptly. The school also places a strong emphasis on mental health support, teaching pupils about mindfulness and providing opportunities to discuss their concerns with specialist staff.
Beyond the classroom, the school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities and clubs that enrich pupils' experiences. Pupils are encouraged to engage with global issues and develop a sense of social responsibility, learning to challenge discrimination and stand up for their beliefs. The school is committed to nurturing caring young citizens prepared for the challenges of modern life.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff well-trained in identifying and reporting concerns. The school ensures that safeguarding is a shared responsibility among all staff members, and thorough record-keeping is maintained. Pupils receive education on important issues such as drugs and consent, equipping them with knowledge about safety and well-being.
In summary, Warden Hill Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational environment. While there are areas for growth, particularly in curriculum adaptation and maintaining high standards of work, the school is well-regarded by pupils, parents, and staff alike.
