St Swithun Wells Catholic Primary School in Chandlers Ford has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on November 21 and 22, 2023. The school is praised for its supportive environment, high expectations, and strong core values of readiness, respect, and kindness. These values are evident in the calm and purposeful classrooms where pupils are engaged and attentive. The school fosters a love for learning, and by the end of Year 6, students achieve well in reading, writing, and mathematics, demonstrating a solid understanding across various subjects.
The school community is diverse, with families from numerous countries contributing to a rich cultural environment. This diversity is celebrated, and pupils develop a healthy respect for differences, learning to appreciate the care and kindness extended by staff and peers alike. The school council provides students with a voice in school matters, and many pupils participate in leading worship as part of the GIFT team, further enhancing their sense of belonging and responsibility.
St Swithun Wells excels in nurturing the whole child, focusing not only on academic success but also on personal development. The school encourages parents to use their first languages at home, which supports children's speaking and listening skills. Effective strategies are in place to assist pupils who speak English as an additional language, including the use of young interpreters to help new arrivals acclimate and learn English.
The commitment to all-round development is evident in the curriculum, which includes important topics such as healthy relationships and civic engagement. Initiatives like Parliament week bring real-world experiences into the classroom, while various clubs provide opportunities for pupils to explore different interests. Home visits before children start in Reception help staff understand each child's unique needs and interests, ensuring a smooth transition into school life.
Reading is a priority at St Swithun Wells, with staff fostering enthusiasm for books from the outset. The phonics program is well-structured and effectively taught, enabling pupils to develop their reading skills early on. Tailored support is provided for those who may struggle, ensuring that all pupils, including those with limited English, can thrive as readers.
Mathematics instruction is equally robust, with a clear progression of knowledge and skills from Reception onwards. The school is actively refining its curriculum to ensure clarity in the learning journey from early years through to Year 6. However, staff turnover has posed challenges in maintaining the pace of curriculum development, and the school is focused on building leadership capacity to address this.
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with leaders working diligently to identify and support any additional needs among students. While the school has made significant strides, ongoing efforts are needed to enhance the curriculum further and ensure that all staff have a clear understanding of the progression of knowledge and skills.
Overall, St Swithun Wells Catholic Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational experience for its pupils, fostering both academic achievement and personal growth in a diverse and inclusive environment. The school is well-positioned to build on its strengths while addressing areas for improvement, ensuring that it remains a good school for years to come.
