East Meon Church of England Controlled Primary School is recognized as a good school, as confirmed by its recent inspection. The school is characterized by a small and friendly environment where pupils express their fondness for their teachers, describing them as kind and humorous. The older students take on a caring role for the younger ones, fostering a supportive community. Pupils enjoy various aspects of school life, including engaging homework projects, science lessons, and the responsibility of caring for school chickens.
The leadership team has established high expectations for student achievement, with a unified commitment from staff and governors to ensure that every pupil leaves the school with a broad understanding of diverse lifestyles. Teachers actively encourage students to reflect on diversity and British values, exemplified by a mixed Year 3 and 4 class studying the book The Iron Man to explore themes of acceptance and inclusion. The school promotes respect for differing viewpoints among pupils.
In the classroom, students generally exhibit good behavior, demonstrating courtesy and a welcoming attitude. Most parents believe the school effectively addresses bullying, and students feel safe, reporting that no one is unkind. They appreciate the support provided by adults and the prompt attention given to any concerns. Pupils understand the concept of bullying and show empathy towards both victims and perpetrators, emphasizing the school's commitment to supporting all parties involved.
The school excels in its curriculum design, with leaders and staff carefully considering how to engage pupils in their learning. The curriculum encompasses all subjects and is tailored to pique students' interests. Leaders have developed a clear overview of essential skills and knowledge, ensuring that pupils revisit key content regularly. For instance, in art, students progressively learn to use different paintbrushes over time. The school has implemented a two-year curriculum to accommodate mixed-age classes, although some subjects, such as history and geography, still require further planning for the second year.
The school is inclusive, catering for the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff regularly plan and review the learning of these students, ensuring they receive the necessary support. Recent training on autism spectrum disorder has enhanced teachers' understanding and provision for these pupils, who are fully integrated into all school activities.
Pupils are encouraged to engage with current events and ethical discussions through initiatives like watching Newsround and participating in philosophy lessons. This approach fosters their ability to debate and express their opinions confidently. The school also emphasizes the importance of physical activity and healthy living, with older pupils enjoying residential trips and sports clubs.
While the school has made significant strides in phonics instruction, leaders are currently reviewing the impact of recent changes. Teachers are clear about the sequence of phonics teaching, but adjustments in grouping have led to some inconsistencies in matching lessons to pupils' abilities. Leaders are committed to ensuring that all students receive appropriate support to enhance their reading skills.
Overall, East Meon Church of England Controlled Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and socially. The school community is dedicated to continuous improvement, with leaders actively working to refine the curriculum and teaching practices to better serve all students. The commitment to safeguarding is evident, with robust procedures in place to protect pupils and ensure their well-being. The school is well-regarded by parents and the local community, reflecting its positive impact on the lives of its students.
