Ofsted conducted a short inspection of Bitterne CE Primary School on 12 February 2019, following its previous judgment of good in March 2015. The inspection confirmed that the school continues to maintain a good quality of education. The leadership team has fostered a welcoming and inclusive environment rooted in the school’s values of love, trust, and forgiveness. Despite several staffing changes, many new teachers have taken on subject leadership roles due to effective coaching and support systems. The leadership team has demonstrated a proactive approach to improvement, particularly in response to past challenges in mathematics, leading to positive outcomes and enhanced progress across all year groups.
The governors are well-trained and supportive, providing regular challenges to school leaders. Staff feedback indicates a strong sense of pride in working at the school, and parents echo this sentiment, highlighting the caring and challenging environment that promotes both academic and emotional growth. Pupils express enjoyment in their school experience, describing teachers as approachable and supportive. They appreciate the responsibilities they are given, such as mentoring younger students and participating in community initiatives.
The school has effectively addressed previous recommendations regarding handwriting, implementing daily sessions and high expectations for presentation. This focus has resulted in improved standards across the school, with additional support provided for those needing help with fine motor skills. The school’s commitment to safeguarding is evident, with robust procedures in place and comprehensive training for staff, ensuring they are well-prepared to address any concerns.
The inspection focused on several key areas, including safeguarding effectiveness, the progress of disadvantaged pupils, and the curriculum's breadth and balance. The proportion of disadvantaged pupils has been rising but remains slightly below the national average. Recent data indicates that these pupils are making strong progress, with targeted interventions in place to meet their needs. The school is committed to further reducing the gap between disadvantaged pupils and their peers nationally.
Most pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are also making good progress, thanks to tailored support from trained teaching assistants. The attainment of the most able pupils in reading and mathematics is in line with national averages, though writing remains an area for improvement. The school has prioritized writing instruction, ensuring relevance and engagement in writing tasks, which has led to noticeable progress.
The curriculum is broad and balanced, with leaders ensuring all subjects receive appropriate attention. The school enhances learning through trips and visitors, which pupils find exciting and enriching. Leaders are actively seeking ways to improve the curriculum further, including plans to deepen pupils' understanding of local heritage.
In summary, Bitterne CE Primary School is effectively addressing its challenges and maintaining a good standard of education. The leadership team is dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring that all pupils, including disadvantaged and the most able, receive the support they need to thrive. The school community is supportive, and pupils are engaged and motivated, contributing to a positive learning environment. The next steps involve continuing to focus on the progress of disadvantaged pupils and enhancing writing outcomes for the most able students.
