Godshill Primary School, located on the Isle of Wight, has recently undergone an inspection that has resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on November 21 and 22, 2023, and marked a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement. The school serves a mixed-gender population of 170 pupils aged 2 to 11 and is part of the Stenbury Federation.
Pupils at Godshill Primary School express pride in their school and enjoy strong relationships with staff, built on mutual respect. They feel safe and happy, knowing that their concerns will be addressed. The school promotes high expectations for behavior, and pupils generally meet these expectations, demonstrating kindness and consideration towards one another. During break times, they engage in various activities, including using the adventure playground and playing sports. In lessons, pupils focus on their learning and work diligently, leading to good achievement across most subjects.
The school has made notable strides in enhancing the teaching of reading since the last inspection. All staff are trained in a phonics-based approach to reading, which begins in the early years. Pupils demonstrate their understanding of letter sounds and read with increasing fluency. The school provides high-quality support for teaching staff, enabling them to assist pupils effectively. Those needing extra help with reading receive targeted support, and their progress is closely monitored. The curriculum also offers numerous opportunities for reading across various subjects, encouraging pupils to engage with texts critically.
In mathematics, the school has responded to previous declines in achievement by seeking guidance from the local authority. This has led to the development of a sequential mathematics curriculum that is taught effectively. Early years pupils encounter mathematical concepts in their environment and through focused teaching, allowing them to build the necessary knowledge and skills as they progress through the school.
While the curriculum has been reviewed and updated in many subjects, some areas are further along in their development than others. For instance, geography shows a clear learning journey from Nursery to Year 6, enabling pupils to build on prior knowledge effectively. However, in a few subjects, recent curriculum changes have not yet been fully embedded, resulting in gaps in pupils' knowledge and vocabulary.
The school demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting disadvantaged pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers are adept at identifying individual needs and making necessary adaptations. Robust processes are in place to monitor the learning of all pupils, ensuring that those requiring additional support receive it through various methods.
Teachers at Godshill Primary School exhibit strong subject knowledge and employ diverse teaching methods to help pupils retain and apply their learning. However, there is some inconsistency in how prior learning is revisited across the school, which can hinder pupils' ability to build long-term memory of key concepts.
The school's personal, social, and health education curriculum fosters acceptance of diversity and encourages pupils to engage with community events, enhancing their sense of belonging. The governing body effectively supports and challenges the school, ensuring that staff feel supported in managing their workload and professional development.
The inspection concluded that while the school has made significant improvements, there are still areas for growth. Addressing gaps in pupils' knowledge and ensuring consistent practices in revisiting prior learning will be essential for maximizing pupil achievement. Overall, Godshill Primary School is on a positive trajectory, with a strong foundation for continued success.
