West Pennard Church of England Primary School is a smaller than average-sized primary school located in Glastonbury. The school has received an outstanding rating in its most recent inspection, which took place from July 3 to July 4, 2014. This is a significant improvement from its previous inspection, where it was rated as good. The school excels in various areas, including the achievement of pupils, the quality of teaching, the behavior and safety of pupils, and leadership and management, all of which have been rated as outstanding.
Pupils at West Pennard achieve exceptionally well, with standards in reading, writing, and mathematics well above national averages by the time they leave the school. Notably, reading standards are particularly high, and there are no pupils underachieving due to the prompt support provided to those who begin to fall behind. The teaching staff maintain high expectations for all pupils, ensuring that both the least and most able are challenged appropriately. Teaching assistants play a crucial role in facilitating rapid progress by asking insightful questions that guide pupils in their learning.
The school environment fosters positive relationships among pupils and staff, contributing to a culture where pupils are motivated to learn and succeed. The school is recognized for its commitment to safety, with parents and carers expressing confidence in the measures taken to ensure a secure learning environment. Pupils enjoy their learning experiences, which are enriched by themed weeks and special events that make subjects engaging and relevant.
West Pennard promotes spiritual, moral, social, and cultural understanding effectively, which enhances the overall educational experience. The leadership team is ambitious and meticulous in their approach to school improvement, ensuring that the school continues to thrive. Parents and carers are highly supportive, frequently praising the progress their children make.
The behavior of pupils is exemplary, with a strong sense of respect and consideration evident throughout the school. Pupils take pride in their work and express enthusiasm for their education, describing the school as an enjoyable place to be. The systems in place for managing behavior are perceived as fair, contributing to an environment where learning can take place without disruption.
The inspection team observed teaching and learning across multiple lessons and engaged with various stakeholders, including the headteacher, staff, governors, and parents. The school has a lower than average proportion of pupils eligible for the pupil premium, while the number of disabled pupils and those with special educational needs is higher than average. Despite this, the school provides high-quality support tailored to individual needs, ensuring that all pupils make at least good progress.
The leadership and management of the school are characterized by a strong commitment to excellence. Leaders regularly assess the effectiveness of the school's work and are quick to implement changes when necessary. The headteacher exemplifies high expectations, which are mirrored by the staff. The governing body plays an active role in supporting and challenging the school, ensuring that resources are used effectively to benefit pupils.
Overall, West Pennard Church of England Primary School stands out as an exemplary institution, demonstrating a commitment to high standards in education and the well-being of its pupils. The school's achievements reflect its dedication to fostering a positive learning environment where every child can thrive.
