Sutton Veny CofE School, located in Wiltshire, was inspected on 28 February and 1 March 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas such as the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management also receiving good ratings. Notably, the early years provision was rated as outstanding. This inspection marked the first routine evaluation since the school was last inspected 16 years ago, during which it was rated as outstanding under a previous framework.
The report highlights that children in the Reception Year receive strong support from staff, enabling them to develop excellent communication skills and thrive as independent learners. The school offers an enrichment curriculum that includes unique activities such as falconry and yoga, alongside a variety of after-school clubs for Key Stage 2 pupils. These experiences contribute to pupils' personal development, with many expressing pride in their roles within the school community, such as school councillors and sports ambassadors. The school fosters a sense of belonging, with parents and pupils describing it as a family-like environment.
Positive relationships between staff and pupils are evident, with pupils demonstrating politeness and respect towards one another. The school’s motto encourages good choices and promotes a culture where bullying is rare. Leaders and staff maintain high expectations for behaviour and actively promote positive choices through praise and recognition.
The curriculum for the early years is ambitious and well-structured, allowing staff to assess and support children's development effectively. However, while the curriculum for pupils in Years 1 to 6 aligns with early years standards in some subjects, there are gaps in essential knowledge in certain foundation subjects. This lack of clarity can hinder pupils' ability to build on their knowledge and make connections between concepts. For instance, while the curriculum aims for pupils to compare historical events, some pupils lack the necessary background knowledge to do so effectively.
Reading is a priority at the school, with early phonics instruction starting in Reception Year. Staff provide additional support for pupils who need it, ensuring regular reading practice. However, there is inconsistency in checking pupils' spelling skills, which leaders plan to address. The school promotes a diverse range of literature, encouraging pupils to engage with texts that broaden their understanding of different lives and cultures.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with thorough checks and training for staff to ensure the safety and well-being of pupils. Leaders take prompt action to support vulnerable pupils and their families, and pupils are educated on online safety.
Staff express pride in their work and appreciate the support from leaders regarding their well-being. Governors are committed to reducing staff workload while maintaining high standards. The school has a clear vision for its development, focusing on continuous improvement.
In summary, Sutton Veny CofE School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a supportive community. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in the identification of essential knowledge in some subjects, the overall environment is conducive to learning and personal growth. The school’s dedication to high standards in teaching and learning, alongside its focus on personal development and well-being, positions it as a valuable institution within the local community.
