Bramber Primary School, located in Worthing, West Sussex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 4 and 5, 2023. The school fosters an environment where pupils are polite, courteous, and respectful towards one another and the staff. They actively embody the school’s values, demonstrating friendly attitudes during social interactions and enthusiasm for learning. Pupils feel safe and supported, knowing they have trusted adults to turn to when they have concerns.
The eagerness to learn is evident among the students, who participate actively in discussions and utilize their expanding vocabularies to engage in lively debates. The curriculum is designed to connect learning to the local community and the wider world, promoting acceptance of diversity and an appreciation for various cultures and religions. Pupils take pride in their school, participating in leadership roles such as house captains and engaging in various extracurricular activities, including sports and concerts.
The school has developed a broad and ambitious curriculum that ensures pupils retain and understand key concepts. The curriculum is carefully planned to align with early years learning, with Reception Year pupils acquiring subject-specific vocabulary through thoughtfully chosen literature and engaging in well-structured mathematical activities. Teachers exhibit strong subject knowledge, creating stimulating activities that captivate pupils' interest. They effectively assess pupils' understanding and provide necessary support, ensuring that all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve high-quality work.
In core subjects like mathematics and English, pupils demonstrate a solid grasp of prior learning and can connect it to current topics, enhancing their understanding. However, in subjects such as geography and history, there is a noted gap in pupils' ability to recall previous learning and make connections, which limits their depth of understanding. The school is aware of this issue and is actively working on strategies to improve retention of knowledge across all subjects.
The reading curriculum is well-structured, with regular reading sessions and a consistent approach to teaching phonics. Teachers ensure that reading materials align with pupils' phonics knowledge, fostering a positive response from students. The school prioritizes reading, recognizing its importance in the overall educational experience.
The atmosphere at Bramber Primary School is calm and orderly, with high expectations for pupil behavior. Students respond promptly to instructions and collaborate effectively with one another. This positive behavior is nurtured from the early years, where children learn to care for one another, and continues as they progress through the school.
Personal development is a key focus, with pupils learning about safety and developing an understanding of important concepts such as consent. The school offers a variety of opportunities that enrich the curriculum and stimulate pupils' interests, including visits to local nature reserves and a wide range of clubs that cater to diverse talents and interests.
Governors are actively involved in the school, regularly visiting and engaging with staff and pupils to understand the effectiveness of leadership and educational provision. Staff receive comprehensive training to ensure they can teach effectively and maintain a safe environment for pupils. Parents express a positive view of the school, reflecting the strong community support.
The safeguarding arrangements at Bramber Primary School are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Moving forward, the school aims to enhance its curriculum further by ensuring that pupils can better recall and connect their learning across all subjects, thereby deepening their understanding and educational experience.
