Ofsted conducted a short inspection of Claverley CofE Primary School on 9 May 2019, following its previous judgment of good in July 2015. The inspection confirmed that the school continues to maintain a good quality of education. The leadership team has established a culture of high expectations for both staff and pupils, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education in a caring environment. The school serves a rural and socially diverse community and is smaller than the average primary school. Parents and pupils praised the school's warm atmosphere and supportive relationships, highlighting the positive impact of staff and older students on younger children.
Despite its size, Claverley CofE Primary School offers a wide range of enrichment and extracurricular activities, including trips related to the curriculum and a week-long residential stay for Year 6 pupils. The school provides various after-school clubs in sports, music, art, and drama, contributing to pupils' enjoyment of school. Relationships between pupils and staff are harmonious, and pupils exhibit good behavior in lessons and during breaks. Attendance rates are above national averages for all groups.
The leadership and governing body have effectively addressed areas for improvement identified in the previous inspection. Evidence from pupils' work and monitoring records indicates that students are regularly engaged in problem-solving activities that challenge their learning. Teachers are attentive to pupils' understanding and address misconceptions promptly. The school is investing in staff development, allowing teachers to collaborate with a local network of schools for professional growth and training opportunities.
While the teaching of phonics requires further development to enhance progress, the leadership team has decided to adopt a new phonics scheme for the upcoming academic year. There is also a focus on providing greater challenges for the most able pupils, particularly in writing across the curriculum, although these new approaches need to be fully embedded for lasting impact.
Safeguarding practices at the school are effective, reflecting its caring ethos. The designated safeguarding leads ensure that all arrangements are appropriate, and staff receive regular training to remain vigilant. Pupils feel safe and trust adults to address their concerns. The school actively raises awareness of risks, including e-safety and bullying, which is rare but taken seriously.
The early years provision is well-managed, with a thorough induction program for new children. Staff assess children's skills and knowledge early on, ensuring that learning needs are identified and progress is recorded. The curriculum offers a rich mix of independent and adult-led activities, allowing children to develop essential skills. The transition to key stage one is facilitated by teaching Reception and Year 1 pupils together.
Due to the small size of the school, pupils are taught in mixed-age classes, which are effectively managed. Teachers collaborate to plan lessons that cater to different year groups, allowing for beneficial interactions among pupils. Historical data shows consistently high attainment at key stages one and two, and current cohorts continue to perform well. The school is focused on enhancing writing skills across the curriculum, particularly for the most able pupils, with an emphasis on producing extended pieces of writing in various subjects. Leaders and governors ensure that the curriculum is appropriate, preparing pupils well for their next educational steps.