Ofsted conducted a remote visit to Pontesbury CofE Primary School on November 24, 2020, to assess the school's response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This visit was part of a broader initiative to understand how schools are managing the return to full education following an extended period of disruption. The visit was not an inspection and did not involve graded judgments or the usual range of inspection activities, such as classroom observations or reviewing students' work. Instead, the focus was on discussions with the headteacher and senior leadership team regarding the school's actions since the full reopening of schools in September 2020.
During the visit, it was noted that approximately 20 percent of pupils had to work from home at some point during the term, but no class bubbles had to isolate. The school continued to offer a full curriculum, ensuring that pupils engaged in all their usual subjects. To enhance learning experiences, the school provided virtual activities, such as author visits, in place of off-site excursions. Teachers employed their standard assessment methods to gauge pupils' understanding and retention of material, which revealed some areas where students had regressed in their learning.
In English, teachers observed that younger pupils in Years 1 and 2 exhibited reduced confidence in their phonics knowledge, while older students faced challenges in writing at length. Consequently, the focus shifted to reinforcing spelling, punctuation, and grammar across all age groups. In mathematics, it was identified that some pupils had forgotten essential mathematical vocabulary and displayed decreased confidence in basic arithmetic skills, including times tables. The Reception class also required additional support in personal, social, and emotional development as children adjusted to being part of a larger group.
The school has implemented measures to support pupils who are isolating, allowing them to access the same work as their classmates through the school website. Plans are in place to provide remote education should a bubble need to isolate, with teachers expected to set work online and provide feedback through digital platforms. This approach aims to maintain continuity in learning and ensure that pupils remain engaged with their education, regardless of their circumstances.
Overall, the visit did not reveal any significant concerns regarding the school's operations during this challenging period. The insights gained from this visit will contribute to Ofsted's national reporting, helping to inform future educational policies. The headteacher and staff were commended for their efforts in navigating the complexities of the pandemic while prioritizing the educational needs of their pupils. The information gathered will be shared with the government and the education sector to enhance understanding of the current educational landscape. The letter summarizing the visit will be published on the Ofsted website, ensuring transparency and accessibility for parents and the wider community. The collaborative efforts of the school in adapting to the ongoing challenges of the pandemic reflect a commitment to providing quality education and support for all students.
