Overstrand, the Belfry, Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 11, 2021. The school embodies its vision of Happy Children Learn, which is evident in the positive demeanor of its pupils. Students display pride in their school, demonstrating respect, kindness, and helpfulness towards one another. They express feelings of happiness and safety, indicating that they are well cared for by the staff. The school has effectively educated its pupils about bullying, leading them to report that it is not a concern due to the school's emphasis on considerate behavior. Pupils feel supported by staff, who guide them in making positive choices.
The school maintains clear expectations for behavior and learning, which pupils respond to positively. They appreciate the school's reward system, understanding the importance of good behavior and hard work. Leadership at the school sets high standards for teaching and learning, ensuring that teachers receive training to deliver the curriculum effectively. This approach has resulted in teachers being well-prepared and pupils being able to confidently apply their knowledge. The curriculum is designed to allow pupils to revisit and reinforce their learning, helping them understand the relevance and long-term benefits of their education.
However, there are areas for improvement. In a few subjects, further development of the curriculum is necessary, as the content has not yet been finalized. This has led to a disparity in the depth of knowledge pupils acquire in these subjects compared to others. The school is committed to addressing this issue to ensure all subjects receive equal attention and rigor.
The school demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Personal learning plans are in place to adapt the curriculum to meet individual needs, ensuring that these pupils have access to a broad and fulfilling educational experience. Leaders recognize the importance of early reading development, implementing a structured approach to phonics that helps pupils learn letter sounds in a logical sequence. Regular assessments ensure that pupils are matched with appropriate reading materials, fostering confidence and fluency in their reading skills.
Leaders also focus on promoting independence among pupils, encouraging them to reflect on their actions and their impact on others. This approach empowers pupils to manage their relationships and resolve conflicts without adult intervention. The governance of the school has improved significantly, with new governors working closely with school leaders to uphold high expectations and accountability.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to recognize and act on safeguarding concerns. The meticulous record-keeping and the involvement of governors in safeguarding processes provide an additional layer of oversight, ensuring that pupils are kept safe.
To enhance the educational experience further, leaders need to finalize the knowledge content in the few subjects that require development. This will enable pupils to deepen their understanding across the curriculum. Overall, Overstrand, the Belfry, Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective learning environment for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth.
