Moreton Say CofE Primary School in Market Drayton, Shropshire, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on June 6 and 7, 2023. The school was rated as good overall, with specific commendations in various areas. The quality of education, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good, while behavior and attitudes were deemed outstanding. The school has maintained its good standing since the previous inspection in February 2017.
Pupils at Moreton Say thrive in a supportive environment where staff and leaders prioritize their well-being and academic success. The school fosters a strong sense of community, with pupils demonstrating exceptional care for one another. Parents have expressed satisfaction with the inclusive atmosphere, noting how children of different ages interact positively. The school’s motto, be ready, be respectful, be safe, is integral to daily life, contributing to exemplary behavior among students. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils trust that any behavioral issues will be addressed effectively by the leadership.
The curriculum is designed to be rich and engaging, accommodating the mixed-age classes that characterize the school. Leaders have recently refined the curriculum in certain subjects to emphasize essential knowledge and vocabulary, although some activities may not fully support pupils' retention of key concepts. Reading is a focal point of the curriculum, with initiatives in place to promote a love of reading among students. The introduction of a new phonics program in nursery has been beneficial, enabling most pupils to become confident readers. However, there are instances where the reading materials do not align well with the phonics being taught, which can hinder some pupils' reading fluency.
Assessment strategies are effectively utilized by teachers to inform their planning and support pupil learning. The school environment encourages focus and minimizes disruptions, allowing for a productive learning atmosphere. In the early years, children adapt well to school life, with staff promptly identifying those needing additional support and tailoring learning experiences accordingly. The early years curriculum is structured to prepare children for future learning stages.
The school excels in supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), ensuring that appropriate adaptations are made to facilitate their learning. This includes the use of specialized equipment and additional adult support, allowing these pupils to engage fully in lessons. Personal development opportunities are abundant, with pupils participating in various roles and responsibilities that enhance their engagement and sense of belonging. The school promotes understanding of different cultures and emphasizes the importance of equality and inclusion.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff well-trained to recognize and respond to potential risks. Pupils receive education on safety, including online safety and appropriate relationships. The school works closely with families and external agencies to provide necessary support.
While the school demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that reading materials consistently match the phonics being taught to enhance pupils' reading skills. Additionally, activities in some subjects should be reviewed to better support retention of essential learning. Overall, Moreton Say CofE Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils are encouraged to achieve their best, supported by dedicated staff and a strong community ethos.
