All Saints Church of England Primary School, located in Winchester, Hampshire, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on November 7 and 8, 2023. The school is well-integrated into its community, providing a welcoming environment that parents describe as having a village school atmosphere despite its urban setting. Pupils feel valued and appreciated, enjoying their learning experiences and the support they receive from staff.
The school sets clear expectations and maintains high ambitions for all students. Its systems for achieving these goals are straightforward and effective, ensuring that everyone understands them. The atmosphere within the school is purposeful, underpinned by strong shared values that foster collaboration among staff and students. For pupils requiring additional support with behavior management, the school provides tailored assistance that meets their individual needs.
Teachers at All Saints carefully plan the learning journey for pupils as they progress through the school. Older students particularly value the emphasis on understanding the significance of positive and healthy relationships. The school promotes a culture of respect and kindness, where pupils take pride in welcoming others. The ‘sparkle card’ reward system encourages recognition among peers, fostering a sense of community and appreciation for both students and teachers.
The curriculum at All Saints is both ambitious and engaging, with passionate leaders driving the subjects. Each subject has a unique identity, such as the emphasis on fieldwork in geography, which helps pupils see the progression of their knowledge over time. This structured approach aids in retention and comprehension of key concepts. Curriculum planning is precise, identifying essential knowledge for pupils, and teachers utilize this information to assess understanding and provide necessary support. The school also ensures that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive exceptional support, with knowledgeable teaching assistants collaborating closely with class teachers.
Reading is a fundamental aspect of the curriculum, integrated into all subjects. Pupils are encouraged to read for pleasure and to enhance their understanding of various topics. Early readers receive strong support through focused phonics lessons, and those who struggle are provided with additional individual and small group sessions. The school prepares children for Year 1 by assessing their needs and supporting them through both play and structured activities.
The school's location is leveraged to enhance learning, with pupils engaging with local resources and sites, such as chalk streams and museums. The school actively fosters partnerships with other local institutions, enriching the educational experience through a variety of visits and guest speakers. Pupils are well-prepared for their transitions, whether moving to a new year group or progressing to secondary school. Important information about pupils is shared among teachers, and opportunities for leadership roles, such as school councillors, are provided to encourage responsibility.
Behavior in the school is commendable, with pupils understanding and embodying the values of love, hope, and community. The school rules promote readiness, respect, and safety, guiding pupils in reflecting on their conduct and its impact on others. The reward system for positive behavior effectively encourages a culture of attendance and engagement.
The safeguarding arrangements at All Saints are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, there is a noted variation in the delivery of the curriculum across a few subjects, indicating that some pupils may not be learning to their full potential. The school is encouraged to continue developing teachers' skills and understanding of the curriculum to ensure consistency in teaching practices.
This inspection marks the second ungraded evaluation since the school was last deemed good in February 2014. The school is part of the Diocese of Winchester and offers breakfast and after-school clubs for pupils. It does not utilize alternative providers for its educational services. Overall, All Saints Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective learning environment, with a commitment to improvement and excellence in education.
