Milborne Port Primary School, located in Sherborne, Dorset, has recently undergone an inspection on May 1 and 2, 2024, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has maintained its good rating from the previous inspection in January 2023.
Pupils at Milborne Port Primary School take pride in their contributions to school life, participating in various activities such as fundraising events organized by the school council and planning games for younger students during break times. This involvement fosters a sense of responsibility and pride among the students. During break times, pupils generally play well together, and they are aware that staff are available to help resolve any issues of unkindness. In the classroom, students are focused and engaged, with teachers providing ample opportunities for discussion and interaction. The expectations set by teachers are clear, and pupils respond well to instructions, demonstrating good behaviour and attentiveness.
The school is actively working to strengthen its ties with the local community. Older pupils engage with senior citizens and participate in community events, such as serving food at a local lunch club and performing in the school choir at village events. These activities not only represent the school but also enhance the pupils' understanding of their role within the wider community. The curriculum is designed to be broad and ambitious, with a recent focus on developing foundation subjects. The sequencing of the curriculum is well thought out, ensuring that pupils acquire the necessary knowledge and vocabulary over time.
However, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects in the wider curriculum have only recently been developed, and while they are well-planned, teachers are still in the process of enhancing their expertise in these areas. The school has introduced mixed-age classes, which presents challenges in curriculum planning to ensure that all pupils receive a comprehensive education. In the early years, teachers effectively plan activities based on children's interests, promoting communication and exploration. The pre-school program emphasizes outdoor activities, which support children's development.
Teachers regularly assess pupils' understanding and have implemented a common approach for revisiting learning, which aids retention. The provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is well-structured, with staff receiving relevant training to support these students effectively. Parents have noted improved communication regarding their children's progress and support.
The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with staff trained to deliver a consistent reading program. They monitor pupils' progress in learning letter sounds and provide additional support where needed, resulting in good progress in reading skills. Pupils are also educated on safety, health, and personal development through a comprehensive curriculum that includes discussions about career awareness.
Despite recent leadership changes, the new headteacher has established a clear vision for the school, and staff feel supported in their roles. The governing body is proactive in seeking external advice to ensure effective governance and support for the school's development. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To further improve, the school should focus on providing additional training for teachers in newly developed subjects and ensure that the curriculum is equitable for all pupils, particularly in mixed-age classes. Overall, Milborne Port Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a positive school environment.
