Rushbury Church of England Primary School, located in Shropshire, was inspected on December 6 and 7, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has maintained a strong reputation since its last inspection six years ago, which was rated outstanding. The current inspection reflects the school’s commitment to providing a quality education while adapting to changes in the educational landscape.
The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, where staff and pupils foster a caring environment. Pupils feel safe and happy, describing the school as a big family. This supportive atmosphere contributes to high attendance rates and exemplary behavior among students. Older pupils actively mentor younger ones, promoting a culture of collaboration and support. The school encourages pupils to engage in various extracurricular activities, including sports clubs and educational trips, which enhance their learning experiences.
The quality of education at Rushbury is rated as good, with a curriculum that has been thoughtfully revised over the past two years to ensure it is broad and ambitious for all students. Staff are becoming increasingly confident in delivering this curriculum, which has led to positive outcomes for pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders have carefully sequenced learning steps across subjects, allowing pupils from different year groups to progress towards common goals. However, there are instances where learning tasks do not fully align with pupils' individual starting points, leading to some gaps in knowledge or insufficient opportunities for deeper learning.
Reception children benefit from being integrated with key stage one pupils, which aids their social and academic development. The school has established effective processes for identifying pupils with special educational needs, ensuring that appropriate support is provided. A strong emphasis is placed on reading, with early phonics instruction fostering a love for reading that continues as pupils advance through the school. The curriculum includes numerous opportunities for reading, both independently and collaboratively, which further enhances pupils' literacy skills.
Pupils are encouraged to develop independence and social responsibility, which is evident in their behavior and interactions. The school’s rules promote respect and safety, and pupils understand the impact of their choices on others. Relationships among staff and pupils are warm and respectful, contributing to a positive learning environment. The school has established clear routines that support excellent behavior, with even the youngest pupils demonstrating responsibility.
The school has strong relationships with parents, the local community, and external partners, which enhances its educational offerings. Governors are actively involved in ensuring the school meets its responsibilities, and staff feel valued and supported in their roles. The school is committed to continuous improvement, addressing areas of inconsistency in teaching and learning to enhance the overall educational experience.
Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their well-being is prioritized. The school is focused on adapting learning to meet the needs of all pupils, with ongoing efforts to ensure that teachers are confident in making necessary adjustments. Overall, Rushbury Church of England Primary School exemplifies a nurturing and effective educational environment, with a strong commitment to the personal and academic development of its pupils.
