Bishop Henderson Church of England Primary School in Taunton has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 17 and 18 October 2023. The school fosters a strong sense of community, guided by its vision of being rooted in love, which shapes its culture and ethos. Pupils appreciate the kindness and care shown by both staff and peers, contributing to a positive learning environment. The school is ambitious for all its students, who display positive attitudes towards learning and demonstrate resilience when faced with challenges. They value the support provided by staff, which aids their educational journey.
Pupils exhibit polite and well-mannered behavior, with clear expectations for conduct that are understood and upheld. The school has implemented a rewards system that encourages good behavior, resulting in a respectful and positive atmosphere. This culture of respect begins in the early years, where children learn essential social skills such as taking turns and sharing. Safety is a priority, with pupils educated on how to keep themselves safe, including online safety, and they know they can approach trusted adults with any concerns.
Leadership opportunities are available for pupils, such as roles in the school council and as play and sports leaders, which help them understand responsibility. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to include essential knowledge, reflecting the needs of the pupils. Teachers effectively adapt learning for those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they access the same curriculum as their peers. However, there is room for improvement in the precision of support plans for these pupils.
The school has prioritized staff training in key subjects, particularly mathematics, ensuring teachers possess the necessary subject knowledge. Vocabulary development is a focus, with staff modeling the use of subject-specific language effectively. In core subjects, teachers assess pupils' understanding and address any misconceptions, allowing for a structured progression in learning. However, in the wider curriculum, there is inconsistency in how learning is revisited, which can hinder the reinforcement of prior knowledge.
Reading is introduced early, with a well-structured curriculum that encourages a love for reading. The school provides resources such as a reading hut for pupils to enjoy books during breaks. While most pupils read books that match their phonics knowledge, some do not receive the precise support needed to develop fluency and confidence in reading.
Lessons are generally calm and focused, with minimal disruption, and pupils engage well during social times. The school emphasizes the importance of friendship and healthy relationships, teaching values such as kindness and consideration for others. Physical health and well-being are also prioritized, with a variety of extracurricular activities available to help pupils explore their interests and talents.
Staff well-being is considered, and there is a positive atmosphere among the staff regarding their work environment. Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the school, with many recommending it to others. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To enhance its provision, the school should focus on consistently checking and revisiting learning in the wider curriculum to ensure pupils' knowledge is secure. Additionally, improving the implementation of the phonics scheme will provide pupils with the necessary support to read effectively. Overall, Bishop Henderson Church of England Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong community ethos and a commitment to the well-being and development of its pupils.
