Kings Worthy Primary School is a larger-than-average primary school located in a rural area east of Winchester. The school has maintained its status as a good school following its recent inspection on March 8 and 9, 2022. Pupils at Kings Worthy Primary School are happy and thrive in a welcoming environment that emphasizes the school motto of being the best that we can be. The leadership team is dedicated to understanding the needs of pupils and their families, fostering a nurturing atmosphere that parents appreciate. Feedback from parents highlights the caring nature of the teachers and their commitment to the children's best interests.
The school leaders have high aspirations for all pupils and recognize the importance of providing a broad range of experiences. They take pride in promoting positive mental health among students, offering regular sessions aimed at developing emotional well-being, along with targeted support for those who need it. Pupils exhibit good behavior throughout the school, remaining calm, focused, and engaged in lessons. They interact politely with adults and treat each other with respect, contributing to a positive school culture. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they occur, they are addressed promptly by staff.
Kings Worthy Primary School offers various extracurricular activities, including participation in local arts events, which excite pupils. They are particularly enthusiastic about projects like the Hampshire Hares and the Winchester Hat Fair parade. The curriculum is broad, with leaders aspiring for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, to achieve well. Experienced subject leaders ensure that knowledge is taught in a clear sequence, particularly in subjects like mathematics and art, enabling pupils to make connections and remember their learning effectively.
However, there are areas for improvement. In some subjects, such as religious education, subject leadership is still developing, which can hinder the curriculum's effectiveness. Teachers' subject knowledge varies across the curriculum, impacting the quality of instruction. While strong subject knowledge leads to effective teaching in areas like art and design, inconsistencies exist in other subjects. Leaders have implemented a training program to enhance teachers' subject knowledge and address these inconsistencies.
Reading is a priority at Kings Worthy Primary School, with daily story times and phonics instruction starting in Reception. Although there are minor inconsistencies in phonics teaching, overall, pupils are well-supported in their reading development. The school provides effective support for those at risk of falling behind, ensuring they catch up quickly and develop into confident readers.
The school's commitment to pupils' wider development is commendable, with a range of extracurricular activities that allow pupils to explore their talents. Opportunities for trips, residential visits, and performances help enrich the curriculum. Leaders prioritize staff well-being, ensuring manageable workloads and fostering a collaborative culture that boosts morale.
Parents express positive views about the school, particularly regarding its response to the challenges posed by remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. The school has effectively supported pupils' education and mental health during this time. Safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a strong culture of vigilance and effective training for staff to recognize risks. Pupils feel safe and know there are trusted adults available to help them with any concerns.
To improve further, the school needs to enhance subject leadership in foundation subjects and strengthen teachers' subject knowledge across the curriculum. This will ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential and retain knowledge effectively. Overall, Kings Worthy Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong focus on the well-being and development of its pupils.
