Western Downland Church of England Aided Primary School in Rockbourne, Fordingbridge, Hampshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 12 and 13, 2023. The school embodies a vision that emphasizes providing pupils with the roots to grow and the wings to fly, a sentiment that resonates with students, staff, and the wider community. Pupils are well aware of the school's core values of love, righteousness, and fellowship, and they actively strive to embody these principles in their daily interactions. This shared understanding fosters an environment of kindness and compassion among students.
Playtimes at the school are characterized by harmony and cooperation, with pupils making effective use of the school grounds. The three fundamental rules of being ready, respectful, and safe are well understood and adhered to by the students. Older pupils take pride in their roles as health and safety ambassadors, ensuring that play equipment is safe for everyone. The enthusiasm for learning is palpable, as pupils recognize the support they receive from adults in their educational journey. The curriculum is continuously reviewed and adapted to meet the needs of all learners, with particular pride taken in the forest school provision that begins in Nursery and allows children to explore nature.
The school has made significant strides in refining its curriculum, clearly identifying essential knowledge that pupils need to acquire. This process starts in Nursery, where children quickly adapt to school routines. However, some curriculum improvements are still in the early stages of implementation, leading to occasional gaps in staff subject knowledge. This affects the design of learning activities, which may not always facilitate the intended learning outcomes. Staff are now focusing on helping pupils recall key content through regular revisiting, but there is still work to be done in accurately assessing what pupils have learned.
Inclusivity is a hallmark of the school, with robust systems in place to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff make necessary adaptations to ensure that all pupils can learn together. Reading is prioritized, with phonics instruction beginning in Reception. Children are well-supported in their phonics sessions, contributing to high outcomes. However, there are instances where the additional support for pupils with SEND could be more precise.
Behaviour expectations are high, and children are taught these from the outset. The transition from Nursery to Reception is well-managed, ensuring that children understand the routines and rules. This leads to a generally calm and productive atmosphere throughout the school. The school offers a broad range of experiences, including residential trips and various clubs, which pupils are eager to participate in. Older pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities, preparing them for future challenges.
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. However, the school recognizes the need for ongoing refinement in curriculum delivery and assessment practices to ensure that all pupils acquire the intended knowledge. Overall, Western Downland Church of England Aided Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth. The commitment to continuous improvement is evident, and the school community is dedicated to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.
