Spellbrook CofE Primary School, located on London Road in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire, has recently undergone a positive transformation, as evidenced by its latest Ofsted inspection report in November 2021. The school, which is part of the Diocese of St Albans and the Envision Schools Partnership, has shown commendable progress since its previous inspection, where it was rated as Requires Improvement. The current inspection has rated the school as Good across all key areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision.
The school prides itself on fostering a welcoming and respectful environment, where pupils, staff, governors, and parents all emphasize the family feel of the school. This sense of community is reflected in the positive behaviour of pupils, who are described as sensible and polite. Older students are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as peer mediation and participation in the worship team, which helps them develop leadership skills and a sense of belonging.
The quality of education at Spellbrook is robust, with staff working diligently to enhance the curriculum across various subjects. Leaders have implemented clear curriculum plans that outline the knowledge pupils need to acquire. In subjects like mathematics, teachers are effectively selecting activities that promote understanding and retention of key concepts. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in a few subjects where the curriculum planning is still in its early stages. Reading has been prioritized, with staff trained to teach early reading effectively. The school has implemented a reading programme that supports pupils who may struggle, ensuring that almost all pupils are prepared to tackle more challenging texts by the time they reach Key Stage 2.
Pupils at Spellbrook have numerous opportunities to develop their skills and knowledge beyond the classroom through extracurricular activities that promote cultural awareness and personal growth. Recent workshops, such as those related to the Paralympic Games, have taught pupils about inclusivity in sports and the importance of adapting activities for all individuals. In the early years, children are well-prepared for their next educational stage, with teachers utilizing well-planned activities that cater to children's interests and developmental needs, fostering a love of learning from a young age.
The leadership team at Spellbrook has been instrumental in driving improvements within the school, ensuring that staff feel valued and supported. The governing body plays an active role in monitoring staff workload and supporting the school community. Safeguarding arrangements at Spellbrook are effective, with appropriate checks in place for all adults working with children. Staff are trained to identify and report any concerns, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported.
In conclusion, Spellbrook CofE Primary School has made significant progress since its last inspection, demonstrating a commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive environment. With ongoing efforts to refine the curriculum and enhance reading fluency among pupils, the school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory. The strong relationships among staff, pupils, and parents contribute to a thriving school community that prioritizes the well-being and development of every child.
