Kingsmoor Primary School in Bawdrip, Bridgwater, Somerset, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 2 and 3, 2023. The school is characterized by its inclusive and welcoming environment, where pupils demonstrate politeness and courtesy. They are well aware of the ‘Kingsmoor Code,’ which promotes kindness, respect, and tolerance. Parents and carers express overwhelming positivity about the school, highlighting the warm atmosphere and the supportive nature of the staff.
The staff at Kingsmoor Primary School maintain high expectations for pupil behavior and conduct, which pupils respond to positively. The structured routines in place contribute to a calm and purposeful learning environment. Early years children exhibit eagerness to learn and respect for their peers and teachers. Pupils feel safe within the school, valuing their positive relationships with staff who provide necessary support for emotional management. Instances of bullying are reported as rare, and pupils are confident that any issues would be addressed promptly by adults.
Extracurricular activities such as choir, football, and netball are well-received by pupils, who also appreciate opportunities to lead assemblies and mentor younger students. This involvement fosters a sense of pride and confidence among them. The school’s leadership and staff have set high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. They have carefully planned the curriculum to ensure that pupils know what they need to learn and when.
Reading is a priority at Kingsmoor, with staff and pupils sharing a love for literature. Older pupils engage with challenging texts, enhancing their fluency and expression. The school provides phonics training for staff, ensuring that children begin learning phonics as soon as they start school. This approach helps pupils gain confidence in their reading abilities, and those who fall behind receive timely support to catch up.
The mathematics curriculum is well-structured, with a focus on developing mathematical vocabulary from the early years. Teachers regularly assess pupils’ understanding, enabling them to tackle increasingly complex problems effectively. However, in some wider curriculum subjects, such as geography, pupils’ knowledge is less secure. Some struggle to build on prior learning, indicating a need for teachers to check pupils’ understanding before introducing new concepts.
Leaders are ambitious for pupils with special educational needs, collaborating with parents and external agencies to provide necessary support. The plans for these pupils are precise and regularly reviewed, ensuring they receive a broad and balanced curriculum. Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards school, with early years children demonstrating good social skills. Disruptions in lessons are infrequent, allowing for uninterrupted learning.
The school effectively supports pupils’ wider development, teaching them the importance of friendship, healthy eating, and resilience. Pupils engage in activities that help them learn new skills and understand values such as tolerance and equality. Governors are well-informed about the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, holding leaders accountable for the quality of education.
The safeguarding arrangements at Kingsmoor Primary School are effective, with staff trained to identify and respond to risks. Pupils are educated on staying safe both in real life and online, understanding the significance of consent and privacy. To improve, the school needs to enhance the use of assessment in teaching to ensure that pupils build on their prior knowledge effectively across all subjects. Overall, Kingsmoor Primary School continues to provide a good education, fostering a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils.
