Salesbury Church of England Primary School has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 12 and 13, 2022. The school fosters a positive learning environment where pupils feel happy and safe. The calm atmosphere created by the leadership and staff allows children, particularly those in the Reception class, to settle quickly and enjoy learning alongside their peers, especially in outdoor settings. Pupils express confidence in the support available for any worries or concerns, contributing to their overall sense of security.
Respect and understanding are core values instilled in the pupils, who are aware of the importance of treating others well. While conflicts among friends may occur, instances of bullying are rare, and pupils trust that staff will address any issues promptly and effectively. The behavior of pupils is commendable, as they engage diligently in lessons, which aids their success across various subjects. The high expectations set by staff encourage pupils to strive for both behavioral and academic excellence. Older students take their roles seriously, serving as role models and participating in committees, which enhances their sense of responsibility.
The school offers numerous opportunities for pupils, including residential trips, sports events, and participation in the school choir and orchestra. As part of their community involvement, pupils have contributed to projects such as creating a garden to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. The curriculum is well-designed to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. It is structured to facilitate learning by establishing clear links between subjects, enabling pupils to build on their existing knowledge.
Leaders actively monitor the effectiveness of the curriculum, ensuring that staff are well-trained to deliver it effectively. Subject leaders collaborate with teachers to enhance their skills and knowledge, which also allows for ongoing improvements in the curriculum, particularly in mixed-age classes. However, some newer subject leaders have not yet received the necessary training to fulfill their roles effectively, which may limit their ability to drive further improvements.
Assessment practices are utilized effectively, allowing teachers to identify pupils who may require additional support. This information is used to tailor learning experiences, ensuring that all pupils can progress based on their individual needs. The school prioritizes reading, with early years pupils enjoying stories and rhymes that develop their language skills. The systematic approach to phonics helps children quickly learn letter sounds, fostering confident and fluent readers.
The school library offers a wide selection of books, promoting a love of reading among pupils. Older students enjoy sharing their reading experiences with younger peers, discussing their favorite authors and recommending books. Pupils demonstrate politeness and focus during lessons, contributing to a conducive learning environment with minimal disruptions.
Personal development is well-supported through various extracurricular activities, including sports clubs and cultural education. The governing body plays an active role in holding leaders accountable for educational quality, while leaders remain mindful of staff workload and well-being. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize changes in pupil behavior and follow appropriate procedures to ensure student welfare.
Overall, Salesbury Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils, with areas identified for further development to enhance the effectiveness of subject leadership.
