Whitchurch Primary School, located in Whitchurch-on-Thames, Reading, Berkshire, was inspected on 14 and 15 November 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas such as the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision also receiving good ratings. Notably, personal development was rated as outstanding. The school had previously been inspected 14 years ago, receiving an outstanding grade under an earlier framework. Since then, the school was exempt from routine inspections until November 2020, resulting in a longer gap between graded inspections.
Pupils at Whitchurch Primary School exhibit high levels of happiness and pride in their school community, which is characterized by a caring atmosphere. Their attendance is notably high, reflecting their enjoyment of school and the engaging learning opportunities provided by the staff. Parents have expressed satisfaction with the school, emphasizing that children are at the heart of the learning process. The positive relationships among staff and pupils foster an environment where students feel supported and encouraged to rise to challenges. The school’s improved curriculum has led to positive achievements among pupils, who appreciate the recognition they receive for their accomplishments through initiatives like the ‘Lucky Stars’ rewards.
The school promotes a culture of care and support, with older pupils looking after younger ones. Pupils feel confident in sharing concerns with designated anti-bullying ambassadors and playground buddies. The school’s motto encourages students to be proactive in resolving conflicts. Enrichment activities extend beyond academics, with various trips, visitors, and clubs available to pupils, enhancing their overall experience.
Whitchurch Primary School has a clear mission to provide high-quality education for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, ensuring that additional needs are identified early and addressed promptly. In subjects like mathematics, pupils demonstrate secure knowledge and can articulate their understanding effectively. However, in some areas of the curriculum, there are gaps in pupils’ retention of key knowledge, which can affect their confidence as they progress to new learning.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with early years pupils exposed to a variety of stories and a structured phonics program. Teachers carefully assess pupils’ phonics knowledge and provide necessary support to help them catch up. The school environment is welcoming and engaging, with a focus on developing language and communication skills in early years. Staff encourage inquisitiveness and determination, helping children build self-control and independence.
The school community is characterized by a shared sense of purpose, with staff setting clear behavioural expectations. Most pupils engage well in lessons, and effective support is provided when needed. The school maintains high attendance levels, reflecting its positive environment. The approach to personal development is exceptional, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and diversity. Pupils learn about healthy relationships and gain insights into different cultures and religions, fostering acceptance and understanding.
The safeguarding arrangements at Whitchurch Primary School are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. To improve further, the school needs to continue refining the curriculum in certain areas that are still in the early stages of implementation, ensuring that strong practices are consistently embedded across all subjects. This will help pupils achieve their full potential and maintain the high standards set by the school.
