Nether Stowey Church of England Primary School has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 13 and 14, 2023. The school is characterized by a positive and secure environment where pupils feel welcomed and valued. Strong connections with the local church and community foster a sense of pride among students, who celebrate their achievements, particularly in sports. The school’s ethos, emphasizing care, activity, and striving for personal bests, is evident in the behavior and attitudes of the pupils. They demonstrate good behavior in classrooms and during social interactions, showing enthusiasm for learning and collaboration during group activities.
The leadership at Nether Stowey is ambitious and has successfully united staff, pupils, and governors around a shared vision. Staff members express pride in their work environment, noting that leaders consider their workload when implementing changes. Parental confidence has significantly improved since the last inspection, with parents appreciating the approachability of staff and their responsiveness to concerns. The curriculum is well-structured, clearly outlining the knowledge pupils are expected to acquire and when. Leaders actively monitor its effectiveness, involving governors in this process.
Staff receive regular training, which enhances their confidence in delivering the curriculum, particularly in mixed-age classes and for pupils with special educational needs. Consistent teaching approaches across subjects contribute to effective learning from early years through to Year 6. For instance, in mathematics, pupils frequently revisit concepts, which aids retention and application in current work. However, there are instances where teachers do not fully challenge pupils, leading to some students feeling that their work is too easy.
Reading is a high priority at the school, with a new phonics approach introduced in the early years. Staff ensure that children develop strong foundational skills in reading, with regular assessments to identify and support those who may be falling behind. The school library is well-stocked, and pupils are encouraged to explore a variety of texts, fostering a love for reading.
The school also emphasizes the importance of mental health, encouraging pupils to understand and promote their well-being. Leadership roles, such as school council members and house captains, allow pupils to engage in charitable activities and develop leadership skills. The school promotes values of equality and tolerance, with pupils expressing strong views on social issues while affirming that everyone is treated equally within the school community.
Governors are actively involved in the school’s operations, demonstrating knowledge and commitment to ensuring high standards. They work closely with subject leaders to monitor pupil learning across all subjects, providing both support and challenge to school leaders.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with a culture of vigilance established among staff. Leaders are proactive in addressing potential issues and ensuring that staff are well-informed about safeguarding practices. Pupils are educated on online safety, understanding the importance of protecting personal information.
While the school has many strengths, there is a need for improvement in ensuring that all teachers consistently challenge pupils to deepen their understanding and extend their thinking. Leaders are encouraged to support teachers in recognizing and building upon the existing knowledge of pupils to enhance their learning experiences. Overall, Nether Stowey Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational environment for its pupils.
