Brighstone Church of England Aided Primary School, located in Newport on the Isle of Wight, has recently undergone an inspection on February 6 and 7, 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. This marks a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement. The school is recognized for its strong sense of community, with pupils expressing pride in their school and actively participating in various initiatives. The pupil-led equality and rights advocates program exemplifies the school's values of love, courage, and respect, promoting empathy and understanding of diversity among students.
Pupils demonstrate good behavior and are enthusiastic about their achievements, such as earning ‘Bee-haviour’ awards. They enjoy socializing during break times and report feeling safe and supported by staff, with bullying being a rare occurrence. The school has established a positive environment where pupils feel happy and secure, thanks in part to the effective safeguarding measures implemented by both pupils and staff.
The school maintains high academic expectations, and pupils generally meet these standards across most subjects, preparing them well for secondary education. The strong sense of belonging within the school community is appreciated by pupils, parents, and carers alike, with many expressing gratitude for the positive memories their children are creating during their primary school years.
Since the last inspection, the school has made significant strides in enhancing its curriculum and improving student learning outcomes. A clear structure is in place for what pupils need to learn across all subjects, and the school has effectively utilized published curriculum schemes to manage the workload of its small staff team. As the school population has evolved to include mixed-year-group classes, certain subjects have been prioritized for review, leading to improved learning outcomes in those areas. However, in some subjects where changes have been more recent, pupils may not yet have fully secured the foundational knowledge necessary for subsequent learning.
The school excels in teaching reading, with staff well-trained in the phonics scheme. Pupils engage in enjoyable phonics routines and receive timely support to help them catch up if they struggle. The school library offers a diverse selection of books, fostering a love for reading and cultural understanding among pupils.
Assessment systems are robust, allowing teachers to monitor pupil progress effectively. Regular recaps of prior knowledge help reinforce learning, and pupils with special educational needs receive appropriate support to ensure they can access the full curriculum.
The early years provision is particularly strong, with effective induction procedures that help children settle into school life. Parents receive valuable information to support their children’s learning, and children are encouraged to explore their curiosity about the natural world.
Wider opportunities for pupils include participation in community events, school trips, and various inclusive clubs, enhancing their understanding of the local area and beyond. The governing body plays an active role in supporting and challenging the school, contributing to a culture of professional development and collaboration.
Overall, the school has established a positive and nurturing environment that supports both academic and personal development, with effective leadership and management practices in place. The school is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of improvement, ensuring that all pupils receive a high-quality education.
