The Bliss Charity School, located in Nether Heyford, Northamptonshire, has recently undergone an inspection on November 1 and 2, 2023, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school is recognized for its friendly and nurturing environment, with parents expressing high regard for the institution. Many parents appreciate the school's role in the local community, with one parent noting that their children love attending and that the school is an important part of their lives.
Pupils at Bliss Charity School are taught to be good friends and feel cared for by the staff, who they trust to address their concerns. While the school has implemented new systems for curriculum development and behaviour management, some of these systems are still in the early stages of being fully integrated. Most students demonstrate good listening skills in lessons and exhibit politeness and consideration towards one another. The school's Respect Tree serves as a reminder for pupils to be courteous and kind. Older students take pride in their roles as buddies for younger peers, fostering a calm and purposeful atmosphere throughout the school day. Pupils requiring additional emotional support receive it effectively and express gratitude for the assistance they receive.
The curriculum at Bliss Charity School has undergone significant changes, with a clear focus on what pupils need to know and remember in a logical order. The school is actively refining its curriculum to ensure continuity from early years to Year 1. In subjects like physical education, pupils are already showing positive outcomes, recalling key concepts effectively. However, the delivery of the new curriculum is still in its early stages in some subjects, and there are inconsistencies in how teachers check pupils' understanding. Occasionally, explanations provided by staff lack clarity, which can hinder learning.
Pupils enjoy a diverse range of reading materials and engage in activities that celebrate inclusivity and diversity. The school emphasizes early reading, providing daily support for those who need it, which has led to improved reading outcomes. Expectations for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are high, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers, along with the necessary support and resources.
Attendance at the school is generally good, allowing pupils to benefit from the curriculum. The school takes proactive measures to support those who may struggle with attendance or punctuality. In the early years, children form strong relationships and confidently engage with their learning environment, making connections to stories shared in class. The early years curriculum is well-structured, particularly in reading and mathematics, although other areas are still being refined.
The school promotes broader personal development through various extracurricular activities, including music, sports, and outdoor learning. Governors have a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, and staff express satisfaction with the support and training they receive. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To improve further, the school must ensure that recently introduced systems and practices are consistently implemented across all areas. This includes refining assessment approaches to better gauge pupils' learning and understanding, ensuring that all staff adhere to agreed methods for assessing pupil progress. Overall, the Bliss Charity School is making commendable strides in providing quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
