West Haddon Endowed Church of England Primary School is recognized as a good school, maintaining high standards since its last inspection. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils feel proud and safe. They respect their teachers and appreciate the support they receive to achieve their best. The pupils express that the school is a great place to grow, highlighting the strong relationships they have with adults who listen and care for them. The leadership team is committed to developing both academic skills and responsible citizenship among students.
Pupils demonstrate their learning through fluent reading skills, engaging with various topics, including historical studies like the Mayan civilization. They critically assess sources of information, understanding the difference between biased and reliable evidence. The school encourages pupils to ask thoughtful questions, fostering a sense of curiosity about the world beyond their immediate surroundings. Older students take on responsibilities as school councillors and buddies for younger children, promoting a sense of community and support.
The school offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports and cultural events, which pupils enjoy. They participate in community events and have opportunities to engage with visitors from diverse backgrounds, enhancing their understanding of different cultures and perspectives. Behaviour is consistently good, with pupils embodying the school’s values of honesty and respect. Instances of bullying are rare, as staff are proactive in addressing any concerns.
Leadership has been effective in sustaining high standards, with clear expectations set for staff and pupils. Regular training ensures that teachers are well-equipped to deliver quality education, particularly in English and mathematics. Reading is prioritized, with phonics instruction starting in Nursery and continuing through the school. This strong emphasis on reading enables pupils to tackle new vocabulary and engage with various subjects confidently.
In key stage two, tailored support is provided for pupils who need it, ensuring that all students can succeed. Teachers introduce advanced vocabulary and teach pupils how to extract information from texts effectively. The school has improved its library resources, encouraging more frequent reading among students.
The curriculum is broad and balanced, with leaders refining plans to ensure that essential knowledge is clearly outlined and logically sequenced. While subjects like English and mathematics are well-developed, there is a commitment to enhancing the teaching of other subjects, such as art and design technology. Leaders are focused on raising standards across the curriculum and training new subject leaders to support this goal.
The school effectively identifies and supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they achieve well. Early years staff work closely with families, providing clear communication about children’s progress. Children are well-prepared for Year 1, engaging in activities that develop their skills and interests.
Pupils are encouraged to participate in charity events and community activities, which help them grow as well-rounded individuals. The school promotes a culture of aspiration through various initiatives, including visits from athletes and opportunities to learn about different faiths. Staff well-being is prioritized, with leaders seeking ways to support their workload.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks. Pupils learn about safety in various contexts, including online safety and emergency preparedness. Overall, the school is committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that all pupils receive a high-quality education in a supportive environment.
