Bowsland Green Primary School, located in Bradley Stoke, Bristol, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 8 and 9, 2022. The school fosters a strong sense of community, emphasizing values such as pride, achievement, responsibility, teamwork, and enjoyment. Pupils take pride in their multicultural environment and are eager to discuss their collaborative efforts and the diverse opportunities available to them. The teaching staff is dedicated to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are held to high expectations, which motivates students to strive for success.
The curriculum at Bowsland Green Primary is broad, allowing pupils to engage with a variety of subjects. Most students develop a solid understanding of fundamental concepts, although some inconsistencies are being addressed by school leaders. Pupils express enjoyment in attending school and feel secure, reporting that instances of bullying are rare. They are aware of whom to approach if they have concerns and trust the adults in the school to address any issues.
The school promotes a culture of safety, respect, and readiness to learn, which is evident in the behavior of the pupils. They understand the expectations for their conduct and are generally polite and well-behaved throughout the school and during playtimes. Reading is prioritized, with a structured approach to teaching that begins in the early years. This method outlines specific learning goals for pupils at various stages, and teachers are well-trained to support daily reading practice. Most pupils become proficient readers, with additional support provided for those who struggle. However, a few pupils may not receive sufficient time to master foundational skills before progressing, which can lead to disengagement.
In response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, the school has focused on ensuring that pupils master essential skills, particularly in mathematics. Teachers effectively assess understanding and design lessons that help students practice and grasp new concepts. In most subjects, leaders have clearly identified the knowledge that pupils need to acquire, and teachers create engaging lessons that facilitate deep learning. However, in a few subjects, such as art, there is a need for clearer identification of essential knowledge and skills.
The school has made recent changes to its curriculum, and while pupils are learning effectively, some older students still exhibit gaps in their knowledge due to not having experienced the full curriculum. Leaders are working to identify these gaps and ensure that all pupils are equipped with the necessary knowledge for their future education. Speaking and listening skills are emphasized across the school, with teachers encouraging pupils to articulate their thoughts clearly from an early age.
All staff members are aware of the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, and they design lessons that build on prior knowledge, enabling these pupils to learn effectively. Overall, pupils demonstrate good behavior in classrooms and throughout the school, enjoying their lessons and engaging in discussions about their learning. The school provides various opportunities for personal development, and staff support pupils' well-being and mental health, which is highly valued by the students.
The safeguarding arrangements at Bowsland Green Primary are effective, with all staff trained to keep pupils safe and understand the procedures for reporting concerns. Leaders ensure that appropriate checks are conducted on all adults working in the school, and the curriculum effectively teaches pupils about safety, including online safety. The school is committed to continuous improvement, focusing on addressing the identified areas for development to enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
