High Ham Church of England Primary School in Somerset has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 21 and 22, 2022. The school fosters a caring and nurturing environment where pupils feel safe and valued. The leadership team has established high expectations for both learning and behavior, and the school’s core values of friendship, trust, and respect are well understood by all members of the school community. Pupils express pride in their school, describing it as a fun and safe place to learn. They demonstrate eagerness to engage in lessons and exhibit good manners throughout the school day. During break times, pupils play happily together and strive to earn recognition for positive behavior through initiatives like the house hero awards.
The school places a strong emphasis on pupil well-being, with staff actively teaching students about mental health and providing support for any issues that arise. Pupils report feeling well cared for and indicate that instances of bullying are rare, trusting staff to address any concerns promptly. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including creative writing, sports, and country dancing, which help broaden pupils' experiences beyond the classroom. Older students take on leadership roles, such as digital and sports leaders, further enhancing their personal development.
High Ham Primary School has designed an ambitious curriculum that supports all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Reading is prioritized, with early years pupils learning to recognize letters and sounds from the outset. Younger students receive regular reading practice with skilled adults, ensuring they read books that align with their phonetic knowledge, which aids in developing fluency. Staff are proactive in identifying pupils who may be falling behind in reading and provide the necessary support to help them catch up. The enthusiasm for reading is palpable among pupils, who enjoy discussing their favorite books and authors.
While the school excels in many areas, there are some aspects that require improvement. In certain foundation subjects, teachers do not consistently assess what pupils know and remember, leading to gaps in knowledge and understanding. For instance, some pupils struggle to apply their knowledge of color and tone in art discussions. Leaders are aware of this issue and need to enhance assessment practices in these subjects to ensure that pupils learn and retain the curriculum effectively.
Additionally, while the school promotes personal development and understanding of different cultures and faiths, there is a need for a stronger emphasis on British values and the understanding of equality. Some pupils have limited knowledge of these important concepts, which leaders should address to ensure a well-rounded education.
The governing body plays an active role in supporting and challenging school leaders, and staff morale is high, reflecting a supportive work environment. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs of risk and to report concerns appropriately. The school has established a proactive approach to safeguarding, ensuring that vulnerable pupils receive the necessary support.
Overall, High Ham Church of England Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong focus on pupil well-being, an ambitious curriculum, and a commitment to fostering a positive learning environment. However, addressing the identified areas for improvement will be essential for the school to enhance its educational offerings further.
