Hose Church of England Primary School, located in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, was inspected on 14 and 15 February 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as requiring improvement, a significant change from its previous outstanding rating from 2010. The inspection highlighted that while the school has a nurturing environment where pupils feel happy and safe, there are areas in the quality of education that need enhancement.
The school promotes a culture of kindness, consideration, equality, and fairness, which is evident in the positive behavior of the pupils. Parents express satisfaction with the care and support their children receive, noting the school's unique nurturing environment. Pupils enjoy a broad curriculum, but the report indicates that the ambitious curriculum goals are not fully realized, leading to inconsistent learning outcomes in some subjects.
Leaders have high expectations for pupil behavior, and the report notes that pupils generally behave well, with rare instances of bullying. The school offers various extracurricular activities based on pupil interests, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience. However, the inspection found that the curriculum is still in development, with some subjects lacking clarity in the essential knowledge that pupils need to acquire. This gap can hinder pupils' ability to make connections and build upon their learning.
In terms of teaching practices, while some teachers effectively assess pupil understanding, this is not consistent across all subjects or year groups. Consequently, not all pupils receive the tailored support they need to thrive academically. The school has recently introduced a new phonics program aimed at improving early reading skills, which has shown positive results for younger pupils. However, the implementation of this program and the overall curriculum requires further refinement to ensure all pupils benefit equally.
Pupils demonstrate a good understanding of physical and mental health, as well as social issues such as democracy and acceptance of diversity. The school effectively identifies the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, working closely with parents to set precise targets for their support. The leadership team collaborates with other schools to share best practices, and governors provide effective oversight and support.
The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks to pupils. The school fosters a culture of safety, ensuring that pupils are educated about various risks, including online safety.
To improve, the school must continue to develop its curriculum, ensuring that it clearly identifies the most important knowledge for pupils to learn and remember. Leaders need to ensure that all teachers consistently check pupil understanding during lessons, allowing for timely interventions when necessary. By addressing these areas, the school can enhance the educational experience for all its pupils and work towards regaining its previous outstanding status. The inspection report serves as a guide for the school to focus on these critical areas for improvement while maintaining its nurturing ethos and commitment to pupil well-being.
