Much Wenlock Primary School, located in Shropshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 7 and 8, 2023. The school provides a welcoming environment where pupils feel happy and safe. Students take pride in their school and actively participate in various aspects of school life, including running clubs such as chess, craft, and litter-picking. They demonstrate strong relationships with peers and adults, exhibiting excellent manners and a sense of responsibility towards their behavior and that of others.
The leadership at Much Wenlock Primary School is ambitious, aiming to inspire pupils to become better individuals in the future. The curriculum is broad and aspirational, with careful consideration given to how learning progresses over time in most subjects. For instance, early years pupils learn about Neil Armstrong, which transitions into a study of the Space Race in Year 1. However, this level of thoughtful progression is not consistently applied across all subjects.
The school is committed to building an ambitious curriculum for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders have effectively structured the curriculum to develop pupils' knowledge from early years through to Year 6, particularly in subjects like history, where chronological learning is emphasized. Despite this, some subjects still require refinement, and recent staffing changes have posed challenges in implementing and monitoring curriculum revisions effectively.
Reading is a priority at Much Wenlock Primary School, with teachers introducing a variety of ambitious texts to pupils. The phonics curriculum is well-structured, enabling children to start reading early and develop confidence in their reading abilities. However, there are instances where assessment information is not utilized effectively by teachers to tailor activities that build on pupils' existing knowledge, which can hinder their learning potential.
Pupils with special educational needs receive appropriate support, allowing them to engage with their peers and participate fully in school life. They are included in various activities, such as inclusive sports and horse riding, which contribute to their overall development. The early years environment is vibrant and conducive to learning, fostering strong relationships between children and adults.
Personal development is a key focus, with opportunities for pupils to engage in a wide range of clubs, including maypole dancing and STEM activities. This year, all pupils have participated in at least one club, helping to nurture their individual talents. Pupils also take on various roles and responsibilities, such as school councillors and digital leaders, promoting respect and tolerance among peers.
The school leadership is mindful of staff workload and well-being, ensuring a supportive environment for educators. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to identify and address potential risks to pupils. The curriculum also includes lessons on maintaining physical and mental health and establishing healthy relationships.
To improve, the school needs to enhance the use of assessment information to ensure that teaching activities align with pupils' prior knowledge. Additionally, some subject leaders require further training and opportunities to evaluate the impact of their work effectively. Overall, Much Wenlock Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong commitment to the development and well-being of its pupils.
