Twineham CofE Primary School, located in a rural setting, has undergone significant changes since its last inspection in November 2022. The recent inspection, conducted on March 13 and 14, 2024, has resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of Requires Improvement. The quality of education is also rated as Requires Improvement, while behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and early years provision are rated as Good. Leadership and management, however, require improvement.
Pupils at Twineham enjoy their time at school, feeling happy and safe in a caring environment. The school fosters a family-like atmosphere where inclusivity is emphasized, ensuring that no child feels left out. Staff maintain supportive relationships with students, and behaviour is generally good, with pupils playing well together during breaks. The school has high expectations for behaviour, and any incidents of bullying are addressed effectively. Pupils are encouraged to take on roles that contribute to school life, such as library monitors and sports leaders, and older students support younger ones as buddies.
Despite the positive environment, the school faces challenges in delivering the curriculum effectively. While the curriculum is well-designed, staff are still adapting to new changes, which has led to gaps in pupils' knowledge and understanding. This is particularly evident among students with special educational needs and disabilities, who do not achieve their full potential. The school has made reading a priority, with staff trained to deliver phonics programs effectively, and pupils engage in various reading activities that foster a love for reading.
In the early years, the curriculum is well-structured, allowing children to settle quickly and engage in practical activities. The outdoor environment is utilized effectively, providing children with opportunities to explore and learn. Pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning and work hard in lessons, with behaviour expectations clearly defined. Attendance is prioritized, and the school takes appropriate measures to address any issues.
The school is committed to enhancing pupils' personal development, teaching them about different cultures and the importance of respect. Pupils participate in a variety of sports and enjoy memorable trips that enrich their learning experiences. Staff express pride in their work and find their workload manageable, although the governing body has faced challenges in providing effective oversight and accountability.
To improve, the school must focus on enhancing subject knowledge among staff to ensure pupils learn effectively. The curriculum for students with special educational needs needs to be better adapted to meet their individual needs. Additionally, governors must gather sufficient information to hold the school accountable and support its development effectively.
Overall, while Twineham CofE Primary School has a supportive and engaging environment for pupils, it must address curriculum delivery and leadership challenges to ensure all students achieve their best outcomes. The school is on a path of improvement, with a clear direction and ambition for the future.
