St Michael’s CofE Aided Primary School in Aldbourne, Wiltshire, has maintained its outstanding status following an ungraded inspection conducted on 14 and 15 November 2023. The inspection did not result in a change to the overall judgement, but it indicated that the school might not achieve the same high rating if a graded inspection were conducted at this time. The next inspection is expected to be a graded one.
Pupils express pride in attending St Michael’s, describing it as a friendly environment where values such as respect, honesty, and love are emphasized. Parents appreciate the school's role in the community and the support staff provide to help children adjust to school life. The school sets high expectations for behavior, and pupils are noted for their politeness and courtesy, demonstrating a clear understanding of school rules from an early age.
Safety is a priority at St Michael’s, with warm and respectful relationships between pupils and adults. Pupils feel comfortable approaching staff with concerns, knowing they will be listened to and supported. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and performing arts, which pupils enjoy and value. Opportunities to take on roles such as worship leaders and school council members foster a sense of pride and responsibility among students.
The school has high academic expectations, with a well-structured curriculum that outlines what pupils need to learn from early years through Year 6. Reading is a key focus, with pupils developing fluency and expression through diverse texts. They enjoy listening to stories read by adults, which enhances their understanding of various concepts, including diversity. Phonics instruction begins early, and staff receive training to effectively teach reading, ensuring that pupils who struggle receive the necessary support to catch up.
Mathematics instruction is also well-planned, with clear explanations and modeling of vocabulary helping pupils build their understanding. However, the implementation of the curriculum in some subjects is less effective, leading to gaps in knowledge for some pupils, particularly in computing. The school’s assessment systems are not yet fully utilized to identify and address these gaps, which can hinder the depth of knowledge that pupils develop over time.
St Michael’s is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, working closely with parents and external agencies to provide necessary adaptations. Most pupils with SEND are able to access the same curriculum as their peers, benefiting from tailored support that enhances their learning.
Pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning, with younger children eager to engage and follow instructions. The school environment is calm and purposeful, contributing to effective learning. Attendance is closely monitored, with proactive measures in place to address any issues early on.
Personal development is a strength of the school, with pupils understanding the importance of British values and discussing topics such as discrimination confidently. They engage in community service, which helps them develop a sense of character and responsibility.
Governors are actively involved, providing support and challenge to the school. Staff appreciate the training and resources available to them, which aid in their professional development. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, while the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement in the implementation of the curriculum and assessment practices to ensure all pupils achieve their full potential.
