Preshute Church of England Primary School, located in Manton, Marlborough, Wiltshire, has recently undergone an inspection on June 18 and 19, 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The school has maintained a positive reputation since its last inspection, which was conducted nine years ago and rated as Outstanding. The current inspection reflects the school’s commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for its pupils.
The school is characterized by its friendly and inclusive atmosphere, where positive relationships between staff and pupils are evident. The school’s vision is integrated into all aspects of school life, promoting a culture of learning and community involvement. Pupils demonstrate good behavior, showing politeness and respect, which contributes to a calm and purposeful learning environment. They feel safe and supported, with a strong culture of kindness and support among peers and staff.
Preshute Primary School offers a well-structured curriculum designed to meet the diverse needs of its pupils. The curriculum is sequenced effectively, allowing pupils to build on their prior knowledge and deepen their understanding as they progress through their education. For instance, Year 4 pupils study animal classification in science, while Year 6 pupils explore how animals adapt to their environments. The mathematics curriculum is ambitious, enabling pupils to apply their knowledge to problem-solving and reasoning tasks.
Despite the strengths of the curriculum, there are areas for improvement. The full content of the curriculum has only recently been implemented, which means that while pupils can articulate their current learning, they have not yet made connections with prior knowledge across all subjects. This gap indicates that pupils may not be developing a comprehensive understanding in every area of study.
The school emphasizes experiential learning, providing pupils with opportunities to engage in various activities that enrich their educational experience. The art curriculum encourages creativity and knowledge of significant artists, fostering a culture where pupils feel comfortable taking risks in their artistic endeavors. Technology is also integrated into the curriculum, helping pupils understand its relevance in their daily lives.
In the early years, children receive a strong foundation for their education. Staff are attuned to the needs of the children, promoting independence and positive relationships. Children are engaged in both indoor and outdoor learning, developing a positive attitude towards their education.
Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with a well-organized approach to phonics instruction. Pupils begin learning to read as soon as they start school, and the school regularly assesses their progress to provide necessary support. This focus on reading continues into key stage two, where pupils encounter challenging texts that enhance their vocabulary and comprehension skills.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to progress alongside their peers. The curriculum also promotes personal development, teaching pupils about healthy relationships and the importance of kindness.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors demonstrating a thorough understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement. They provide meaningful support and hold the school accountable for its progress.
The safeguarding arrangements at Preshute Primary School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with plans to further embed the curriculum to enhance pupils’ understanding across all subjects. Overall, Preshute Church of England Primary School is a nurturing and effective educational institution that prioritizes the well-being and development of its pupils.