Kinnerley Church of England Controlled Primary School, located in Oswestry, Shropshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on June 18 and 19, 2024. The school provides a nurturing and safe environment where pupils feel happy and secure. The positive atmosphere is evident during playtimes, where older students care for younger ones, fostering a sense of community. The school promotes inclusivity, with pupils expressing that discrimination is not tolerated and that everyone is welcomed regardless of their background or beliefs. Parents, pupils, and staff take pride in the school, with many parents expressing their satisfaction with the education and care their children receive.
The school’s values, which emphasize dreaming, believing, aspiring, and achieving, are well understood by both staff and pupils. The curriculum is ambitious and designed to meet the needs of all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils are engaged in their learning and demonstrate good academic achievement. They have opportunities to explore their interests through various extracurricular activities, including coding, chess, art, and gardening, which enrich their educational experience.
The quality of education is high, with leaders effectively identifying the knowledge and skills required for pupils and organizing the curriculum to suit mixed-age classes. While assessments in core subjects are utilized effectively to identify learning gaps, the school is in the process of refining assessments in foundation subjects to ensure they accurately reflect the intended knowledge. Reading is a strong focus, with a systematic approach to phonics that helps pupils become fluent readers. However, some staff require further training in the phonics scheme to address errors more promptly.
In the early years, children thrive in a supportive environment where they build strong relationships and learn essential social skills. The curriculum is well-planned to cater to the diverse needs of children, including those as young as two years old. Pupils with special educational needs receive personalized support, allowing them to flourish within the school community.
Behaviour throughout the school is generally positive, with pupils demonstrating respect and politeness. They understand the importance of embracing differences and are equipped with strategies to maintain their mental and physical health. While most pupils behave well in lessons, there are instances of low-level disruption that can affect learning. The school is encouraged to ensure consistent implementation of behaviour policies to maintain high expectations across all classes.
Governance is strong, with governors actively involved in ensuring the school meets its objectives. They possess a thorough understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for development. Staff express positive sentiments about their workload management and feel supported by leadership.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, particularly in enhancing staff training for phonics instruction and refining behaviour management strategies. Overall, Kinnerley Church of England Controlled Primary School is a well-regarded institution that provides a solid educational foundation for its pupils while fostering a caring and inclusive community.
