Myddle CofE Primary School in Shrewsbury, Shropshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 18 October 2022. The school is characterized by a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, where pupils are eager to attend and respond positively to the high expectations set by adults. The leadership team has developed a broad and interesting curriculum that emphasizes local area studies, fostering a love for learning among students. Pupils demonstrate exceptional behavior during lessons and playtimes, embodying the school's Christian values of respect, perseverance, and kindness. They report that bullying is rare and express confidence in the adults' ability to address any issues swiftly, contributing to a safe and supportive environment.
Students are encouraged to take on additional responsibilities, with opportunities to apply for various roles such as librarian, eco-councillor, and sports leader. The school provides numerous avenues for pupils to explore their interests in sports, music, and art through clubs and community performances. Regular educational visits enhance their learning experiences, making the curriculum engaging and relevant.
The school excels in its ambitious curriculum design, which is well-sequenced across most subjects. Leaders have clearly outlined the essential knowledge and vocabulary that pupils must acquire from Nursery through to the end of key stage two. Despite the small size of the school, which often necessitates changes in class organization, the curriculum remains flexible and builds on prior knowledge effectively. However, leaders have identified areas for further development, particularly in subjects like computing, and are committed to enhancing the curriculum and providing staff training.
Staff development is prioritized, ensuring that teachers and teaching assistants possess strong subject knowledge. They effectively assess pupils' understanding during lessons and address misconceptions promptly, utilizing assessment data to close learning gaps. Reading is a key focus from the moment children enter the Nursery, with staff trained to teach phonics and provide support for those at risk of falling behind. Younger pupils enjoy engaging with stories and rhymes, while older students read for pleasure and discuss their favorite authors.
The Nursery provides a strong foundation for children, with positive relationships between adults and children fostering a sense of safety and curiosity. Staff actively promote vocabulary development and engage children in mathematical concepts. The school is attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring they receive effective support and access to the full curriculum.
Pupils' personal development is emphasized, with lessons on safety, health, and charity involvement. The curriculum includes education on different cultures and world religions, with plans to enhance understanding of individual differences. Governors are dedicated to the school, holding leaders accountable and supporting staff through collaborative opportunities within the federation.
Most parents express positive views about the school, highlighting its nurturing environment. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to report concerns and robust recruitment processes in place. The curriculum also includes lessons on safety, ensuring pupils are well-informed about online safety and healthy relationships. While the school is performing well, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all subjects are well-developed and that pupils gain a comprehensive understanding of diversity and individual characteristics. Overall, Myddle CofE Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
