Sebert Wood Community Primary School in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, was inspected on 14 and 15 November 2023, receiving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has a strong reputation, characterized by warm and friendly relationships among staff and pupils. High aspirations are set for students, who are motivated to meet these expectations. Parents appreciate the care provided for their children, and the pastoral team offers essential support for students managing their emotions. The breakfast club and after-school childcare are well-received, with pupils enjoying the activities offered.
Pupils demonstrate respect and kindness towards one another, engaging positively in social interactions. They understand and embody the school’s values of respect, resilience, and readiness, contributing to a cohesive school community. Movement around the school is calm and orderly, with students eager to participate in lessons. They express feelings of safety and security, knowing that adults will respond promptly to any concerns.
The school encourages pupils to take on responsibilities, such as serving as librarians or eco-leaders, and offers a variety of clubs, including yoga, mindfulness, and sports. The curriculum is well-structured, outlining essential knowledge for pupils. Staff are knowledgeable and effectively present information in lessons. Teachers are trained to identify students needing additional support, ensuring that those with special educational needs and disabilities can access the same learning opportunities as their peers. However, communication with parents of students with SEND needs improvement, as some feel uninformed about the support their children receive.
The curriculum includes local studies, enhancing learning through real-world connections. Despite this, the school has not consistently monitored the implementation of the curriculum across all subjects. Teachers assess pupils' understanding during lessons and have introduced systems to track retention of knowledge over time. However, in some subjects, these systems are still developing, leading to gaps in understanding for some pupils.
In the early years, staff effectively teach foundational reading skills, quickly identifying and supporting pupils who require extra help. By the end of key stage one, most pupils read fluently and confidently, enjoying visits to the school library. The school’s routines foster attentiveness and motivation among pupils, contributing to a positive culture during break times and lunch.
Children in Nursery and Reception are introduced to essential routines for successful school life, forming friendships and engaging happily in learning activities. Staff prioritize communication skills, encouraging children to articulate their thoughts and ideas. The school emphasizes personal development, teaching the importance of healthy relationships and safety. Assemblies reinforce values of respect and kindness, helping pupils understand the impact of their behavior on others.
Governors possess a solid understanding of the school and provide valuable support, contributing to its development. Staff report feeling well-supported by leadership, which promotes their well-being and manages workload effectively. Safeguarding arrangements are deemed effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To improve, the school must enhance monitoring procedures for curriculum implementation, addressing inconsistencies in teaching quality across subjects. Strengthening partnerships with parents of pupils with SEND is also crucial, ensuring they receive timely information about their child's support. Overall, Sebert Wood Community Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational environment, with clear areas identified for further development.
