Great Milton Church of England Primary School has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on February 7 and 8, 2024. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, with parents and pupils alike describing it as a family-oriented environment where kindness and happiness are prioritized. This nurturing atmosphere allows children to feel safe and secure, fostering their growth as individuals. The school has successfully integrated new students, including refugees, demonstrating a commitment to empathy and understanding, which has left a lasting impact on the school culture.
Academically, Great Milton is dedicated to ensuring that pupils achieve their best. The school implements the Great Milton Way, which emphasizes being ready, respectful, and responsible. This framework is evident in the daily activities of the school, encouraging pupils to work hard and seek help when needed. The curriculum provides a solid foundation in essential skills and knowledge across various subjects, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their future education.
Beyond academics, the school offers a rich array of extracurricular activities that enhance the educational experience. Visits and guest speakers bring learning to life, while clubs allow pupils to explore their interests and try new things. A recent initiative, a lunchtime book club led by Year 5 reading ambassadors, has gained popularity among students. The staff is well-equipped to deliver the personal, social, and health education curriculum, teaching pupils about maintaining physical and mental health and fostering acceptance of diversity.
The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that all pupils feel valued and respected. Attendance is a focus area, with leaders working closely with families to address barriers. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities thrive in this supportive environment, thanks to the compassionate and well-trained staff. The school actively collaborates with external agencies to provide additional support when necessary.
Overall, pupils at Great Milton are learning and achieving well. While recent outcomes at key stages have not reached pre-pandemic levels, the school is reflective and proactive in its approach to improvement. The introduction of a new phonics program has positively impacted early reading skills, with children beginning to learn to read as soon as they enter Reception. Staff training ensures that teaching is precise, and additional support is available for those who need it, allowing all pupils to experience success in their reading journey.
Mathematics instruction has also seen improvements, with a focus on clear explanations and revisiting concepts to reinforce learning. This approach has led to a deeper understanding of mathematical principles among pupils, boosting their confidence in their abilities. The school is ambitious in its curriculum design, continually refining it to ensure that teaching is purposeful and engaging across all subjects.
While the school excels in many areas, there is a need for further refinement in the curriculum beyond core subjects. Some guidance for staff in certain subjects lacks clarity, which can affect pupils' retention of essential knowledge and skills. The school is encouraged to define more clearly what pupils should master at key points throughout their education.
The safeguarding arrangements at Great Milton are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is committed to maintaining high standards and continuously improving its educational provision, demonstrating a strong dedication to the success and well-being of its students.