Holt Voluntary Controlled Primary School, located in Trowbridge, Wiltshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on April 16 and 17, 2024. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, where pupils, staff, and parents value the supportive environment. Pupils express appreciation for the care and guidance provided by the staff, indicating that the relationships fostered within the school contribute significantly to their sense of safety and well-being. The school promotes a positive and vibrant atmosphere, encouraging pupils to engage actively in their learning and to develop resilience in the face of challenges.
The curriculum at Holt Primary is well-structured, focusing on the essential knowledge and skills that pupils need to acquire. It emphasizes incremental learning, allowing pupils to build on their existing knowledge over time. Writing has been a particular focus, with a dedicated curriculum designed to enhance the quality of pupils' written work. This approach enables pupils to apply their writing skills across various subjects, fostering versatility in their learning. Reading is also prioritized, starting from the early years, with daily phonics lessons that equip children with the necessary skills to read confidently and fluently. The school ensures that pupils have access to a diverse range of high-quality literature, which not only supports their reading development but also cultivates a love for reading.
The school is committed to inclusivity, with staff trained to identify and support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. This ensures that all pupils can access the broad curriculum and receive the necessary resources to aid their learning. The school maintains high standards for behavior, creating a calm and orderly environment conducive to learning. Pupils are well-mannered and polite, with minimal disruptions during lessons.
Extracurricular activities play a vital role in the school experience, with pupils participating in various clubs and sports, which help them develop their interests and talents. Leadership opportunities are also available, allowing pupils to engage in roles such as school council members and sports ambassadors, fostering a sense of responsibility and active citizenship.
Despite the overall positive findings, the inspection highlighted areas for improvement. At times, learning activities did not align with the ambitious curriculum, which affected some pupils' learning outcomes. The school is encouraged to continue providing support and guidance to staff to enhance their expertise in delivering the curriculum effectively, ensuring that activities are well-matched to pupils' learning needs.
The safeguarding arrangements at Holt Primary are effective, with a strong emphasis on creating a culture of safety and support for all pupils. The leadership team has successfully navigated significant staffing changes since the last inspection, driving curriculum improvements and maintaining a shared vision of ambition for all pupils.
Overall, Holt Voluntary Controlled Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education in a nurturing environment. The positive relationships among pupils, staff, and parents, combined with a well-structured curriculum and a focus on personal development, contribute to the school's effectiveness. The school is well-positioned to continue its journey of improvement, ensuring that all pupils receive the support they need to thrive academically and socially.
