Cheswardine Primary and Nursery School, located in Market Drayton, Shropshire, has recently undergone an inspection on 10 and 11 October 2023, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. This marks a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement. The school is characterized by a welcoming atmosphere where pupils are eager to learn. Staff members are deeply familiar with each pupil, allowing for a personalized approach to education that enhances learning opportunities.
The school sets high expectations for all students, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils respond positively to these expectations, demonstrating commendable behavior and a strong work ethic both in academic settings and during social interactions. The positive school culture is reflected in pupils' enjoyment of school, their feelings of safety, and their understanding of the importance of respect and equality. The school community is described as a family, with younger and older pupils interacting harmoniously during meals and playtime.
Cheswardine Primary and Nursery School effectively prepares its pupils for life in modern Britain through a thoughtfully designed curriculum. Pupils are well-versed in fundamental British values, such as respect and the rule of law, and they engage in various extracurricular activities, including clubs and trips. Notably, younger pupils enjoy camping experiences on school grounds, while older pupils participate in outdoor residential trips in Wales.
The school has a clear and ambitious vision that is shared among all stakeholders. Since the last inspection, school leaders have made continuous improvements, leading to positive outcomes for pupils. The curriculum is broad and logically sequenced, enabling pupils to build knowledge progressively. Leaders have identified essential knowledge and vocabulary for each year group, and teachers effectively utilize this information to facilitate learning. However, some subject leaders are still new to their roles and are in the process of developing their understanding of how well pupils learn in their subjects.
Teachers across the school demonstrate secure subject knowledge and present content clearly. They engage pupils with questions that relate to prior learning, helping to reinforce knowledge retention. While pupils are eager to discuss their learning, there are instances where expectations for handwriting and presentation are not consistently high, leading to unaddressed spelling errors.
The teaching of phonics and reading is well-managed, with pupils reading regularly both at home and in school. Staff introduce stories and rhymes early in Nursery to develop speech and language skills. Daily phonics sessions in Reception help pupils learn sounds quickly, and all staff are trained to support reading effectively. Most pupils achieve fluency in reading by the end of Key Stage 1 and continue to read widely as they progress through the school.
Pupils with special educational needs receive good support and are fully included in school life. The school accurately identifies their needs and provides tailored resources to facilitate their learning alongside peers. This inclusive approach ensures that these pupils achieve well.
Leaders prioritize personal development, offering meaningful opportunities for pupils to deepen their learning and explore new experiences. Community links are strong, with pupils participating in local events and clubs. The governing body is well-informed about the school and supports staff well-being, contributing to a positive work environment. The focus on mental health and well-being is a notable strength of the school, fostering a sense of value among staff. Overall, Cheswardine Primary and Nursery School is a thriving educational institution that effectively supports its pupils' academic and personal growth.
