Hyde Church of England Primary School, located in Fordingbridge, Hampshire, has recently undergone an inspection on November 28 and 29, 2023, and has been rated as good overall. The school is part of the Forest Edge Learning Federation, which includes two other local schools, allowing for collaborative curriculum development and shared resources. This partnership enhances the educational experience for pupils, providing them with opportunities to learn and socialize with peers through various events, including residential trips and sports activities. Parents have expressed satisfaction with the nurturing environment the school offers.
The school emphasizes social and emotional development through its 'Roots' curriculum, which focuses on essential life skills such as respect, resilience, and independence. Leaders at the school are committed to ensuring that every pupil experiences a range of special activities, which contribute to their personal growth. The school maintains a distinct identity with simple rules that promote safety, kindness, and readiness, fostering a positive atmosphere for learning.
The commitment to learning is evident in the school's approach to professional development for staff, ensuring that teaching is effective and aligned with the school's priorities. The focus on punctuality and attendance has resulted in high levels of student engagement. The curriculum is well-structured, beginning with early reading skills taught systematically from Reception. Staff are adept at identifying pupils who may need additional support, ensuring that all students can thrive academically.
The school has designed a curriculum that encourages deeper thinking through project-based learning, where overarching questions stimulate critical thinking. The incorporation of visits and guest speakers enriches the curriculum, making learning more engaging and relevant. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that pupils retain knowledge from subjects they have not studied recently. The school is working on strategies to enhance retrieval of subject-specific learning.
While the school has made strides in developing a broad curriculum, there is a need to focus on core subjects such as writing and mathematics. Staff have recently begun receiving professional development in these areas, and it is crucial that this momentum continues to improve pupil outcomes. The school is aware of the need to balance its broad curriculum with the essential skills required in core subjects.
The safeguarding arrangements at Hyde Church of England Primary School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school has a clear understanding of the importance of safeguarding and has implemented measures to protect the welfare of its students. The leadership team is proactive in creating a culture of safety and openness, which is vital for the well-being of pupils.
In summary, Hyde Church of England Primary School is a good school with a strong commitment to the holistic development of its pupils. The collaborative approach within the federation enhances the educational experience, while the focus on social and emotional learning prepares students for future challenges. Continued attention to core subjects and retrieval strategies will further strengthen the school's academic performance. The effective safeguarding measures in place ensure that pupils can learn in a safe and supportive environment.
