Eastover Primary School, located in Bridgwater, Somerset, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 4 and 5, 2023. The school is committed to its mission of fostering an environment where pupils can discover and grow together. Leaders and staff prioritize inclusivity and provide essential pastoral support, ensuring that students feel safe and happy. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including trips to art exhibitions, the theatre, and a farm, as well as after-school clubs that encompass sports, forest school, and mindfulness.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil behavior, which is generally met with positive responses. In the Reception class, children collaborate effectively and follow established routines with minimal assistance. Older students demonstrate concentration and take pride in their work. Playtimes are enjoyable, and pupils look after one another, with incidents of bullying being rare. When issues arise, leaders act decisively to address poor behavior while also providing necessary support for improvement.
The curriculum at Eastover Primary is ambitious and well-structured, particularly in its approach to developing knowledge progressively. For instance, the science curriculum effectively builds pupils' understanding of various scientific inquiries. However, school leaders acknowledge that some subjects require further enhancement, and this work is ongoing. The early reading curriculum is introduced at the start of the Reception Year, breaking learning into manageable steps. Teachers accurately model sounds, and the reading materials align with the sounds being taught, helping pupils to read fluently.
Teachers possess a strong understanding of their subjects and present information clearly, which aids pupil learning, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. For example, during art lessons, pupils learn various techniques to create different effects, applying this knowledge to enhance their work. Nevertheless, there are instances where pupils do not have enough opportunities to practice using newly acquired vocabulary, which can hinder their ability to articulate concepts effectively.
The early years curriculum is designed to prepare pupils for key stage one, utilizing stories to spark interest in art and familiarize them with renowned artists. In English and mathematics, teachers effectively use assessments to identify pupils who may be falling behind and adjust learning accordingly. This strategy has proven successful in mathematics, although some subjects still lack effective assessment systems, leaving leaders uncertain about pupils' understanding of key knowledge.
Leaders prioritize pupils' personal development, teaching them about online safety and the importance of sharing concerns with staff. The school emphasizes self-reflection, helping pupils develop self-control and care for others. Respect for diverse cultures and backgrounds is integrated into the curriculum through geography and religious education.
Governors play a strategic role in fostering an inclusive environment, ensuring that leaders have the necessary resources to support pupils' needs. The school provides therapeutic support for those who require it and promotes a strong team ethos that benefits staff well-being.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with trained staff implementing robust systems for reporting and addressing concerns. Leaders are aware of when to seek external advice and support for pupils needing additional help. Overall, Eastover Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience for all its pupils while recognizing areas for improvement in curriculum sequencing and assessment practices.
