Western Church of England Primary School, located in Winchester, Hampshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection in October 2019. The school fosters a positive learning environment where pupils are enthusiastic about their education. The school’s ‘Learning Tree’ initiative encourages students to aspire to imagine, create, and achieve, and teachers maintain high expectations for student effort and performance. Parents express strong support for the school, highlighting its caring atmosphere that promotes confidence and personal growth among children.
Pupils appreciate the citizenship awards introduced by the governors, which motivate them to engage with and contribute to their local community. The school promotes harmonious play during recess, and instances of bullying are rare, with staff effectively addressing any issues that arise. The school environment is characterized by mutual respect among pupils and staff, and there are ample support systems in place for students who need someone to talk to. The ‘Nest’ provides a safe space for pupils seeking comfort or assistance.
The school offers a diverse range of activities, with the Western Way running track being particularly popular among students who participate in daily runs or walks, contributing to their physical fitness and overall well-being. Leadership at the school is strong, with the headteacher and staff dedicated to continuous improvement. The curriculum is engaging and well-planned, allowing pupils to develop and apply their knowledge effectively. Subject leaders are passionate and share their expertise with colleagues, enhancing teaching quality across various subjects.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement, particularly in mathematics. Teachers sometimes do not verify that pupils have fully grasped concepts before progressing, which can hinder retention of knowledge. In reading, the school has made strides in supporting early literacy, although there was a dip in phonics screening results in 2019. Leaders are actively addressing this by providing training to staff to ensure that all pupils meet expected standards in phonics.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive tailored instruction that fosters positive attitudes toward learning. Behaviour in the school is generally good, with pupils adhering to the school’s Christian values and enjoying a wide array of extracurricular clubs.
In the early years, children quickly adapt to the school environment and benefit from a variety of activities that promote foundational skills. Teachers utilize their understanding of each child to tailor learning experiences, ensuring that all children are well-prepared for Year 1. The school emphasizes communication skills, providing numerous opportunities for children to engage in discussions and role-play scenarios that enhance their vocabulary and understanding.
Governors are well-informed about the school’s strengths and areas for development, holding leaders accountable while prioritizing the well-being of both pupils and staff. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong culture of safety and regular training for staff to ensure the welfare of all students.
Overall, Western Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils, with a clear focus on improvement and community engagement. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address the areas identified for development, ensuring that all students achieve their full potential.
