Cowes Primary School, located in Cowes on the Isle of Wight, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on February 11 and 12, 2020. The school is characterized by effective relationships between pupils and staff, fostering a caring and friendly community where students feel safe and happy. The ethos of the school emphasizes the rights of pupils to learn, be safe, and be respected, which is evident in the positive atmosphere throughout the school. Pupils engage in a variety of interesting visits, events, and clubs, including a horticultural show and a weekly dance routine led by students, which contribute to their resourcefulness and thoughtfulness.
The leadership team is dedicated to equipping pupils for their future, with high expectations for their development as learners and citizens. Pupils take pride in their work, particularly their artwork displayed in the school gallery. They demonstrate politeness and attentiveness in class, reporting minimal instances of bullying, which are promptly addressed by teachers. The school has made significant strides in improving the quality of education in core subjects such as reading, writing, and mathematics. The curriculum is designed to build knowledge logically, providing ample opportunities for practice. In mathematics, for instance, pupils are developing fluency in number skills and strong reasoning abilities.
While the school has made progress in enhancing the wider curriculum, some subjects, including history, require further development in terms of detailed and coherent planning. Pupils enjoy their topics but may lack a comprehensive understanding of essential knowledge. The school prioritizes reading, with a strong phonics program in place that supports early readers. However, some pupils, particularly those who struggle, do not receive the precise support they need to catch up effectively.
The Reception curriculum is engaging, encouraging children to work collaboratively and creatively while developing a rich vocabulary through meaningful conversations. The school promotes positive attitudes towards learning, with pupils attending regularly and adhering to routines that create a purposeful classroom environment. Support is provided for a small number of pupils who may struggle with behavior, leading to improvements over time.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they make strong progress in well-planned subjects. Pupils with SEND are included in the wider opportunities offered by the school. Additionally, pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities that benefit the school community, participating in events that promote appreciation for diversity and global awareness.
The leadership team is committed to developing the whole child, supported by an effective governing body. Staff feel well-supported, contributing to a positive working environment. Safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a focus on keeping children safe and providing timely support to families in need. The school is currently working on improving curriculum planning in foundation subjects to ensure coherence and effectiveness, as well as ensuring consistent implementation of the reading program to meet the needs of all pupils. Overall, Cowes Primary School is a nurturing environment that prioritizes the holistic development of its pupils while striving for continuous improvement in educational quality.
