Vernham Dean Gillum’s Church of England Primary School in Hampshire has recently undergone an inspection, receiving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on 31 October and 1 November 2023, marking a significant improvement from its previous grade of requires improvement. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, where pupils express a genuine love for learning and demonstrate the values of courage, creativity, and compassion. The positive atmosphere is evident in the way pupils interact with one another, fostering friendships and good communication skills that contribute to a calm and happy environment.
The leadership team has set high expectations for all pupils, implementing a clear and precise curriculum that is effectively delivered by teachers. This has resulted in improved achievement across all areas of the curriculum, starting from the Reception Year and continuing throughout their education. Pupils exhibit good leadership qualities through roles such as school councillors and house captains, and they actively contribute to making the school a better place. The buddy system in place allows older pupils to support younger ones, enhancing the sense of community and belonging.
Reading is a priority at the school, with a clear emphasis on fostering a love for books among pupils. Staff have received training in phonics instruction, which has led to effective teaching practices that ensure all pupils have access to appropriate reading materials. The introduction of the ‘Read Every Day’ initiative is beginning to positively impact pupils' reading habits across different ages and abilities.
The curriculum is well-structured, allowing for the development of knowledge and skills in all subjects. Teachers are becoming more knowledgeable in their respective subjects and are adept at supporting all pupils, particularly those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs. However, some gaps in learning remain due to recent curriculum changes, and the school is working to address these by implementing new assessment methods to better understand pupils' prior knowledge.
Pupils' behavior is commendable, contributing to a conducive learning environment. They engage respectfully with peers and adults alike, and playtimes are filled with a variety of activities that keep pupils active and ready to learn. Attendance is strong, with staff collaborating closely with families to improve attendance where necessary.
The school community values its spiritual development, providing opportunities for pupils to reflect on their experiences and consider how they can contribute positively to the world around them. This emphasis on character development is evident in pupils' understanding of diversity and their rejection of discrimination.
The governing body has taken decisive action to secure effective leadership, and staff express pride in being part of the school. Parents echo this sentiment, with many expressing satisfaction with the nurturing environment and the positive impact on their children.
While the school has made significant strides, there are areas for improvement. The curriculum in some subjects is still new, and pupils may not have fully grasped the essential knowledge required. The school is encouraged to ensure that the new curriculum is fully implemented and that assessment information is utilized effectively to inform future teaching strategies. Overall, Vernham Dean Gillum’s Church of England Primary School is on a positive trajectory, with a commitment to continuous improvement and a focus on providing quality education for all its pupils.
