Bassett Green Primary School, located in Southampton, has undergone significant improvements since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The recent inspection, conducted in June and July 2021, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across all evaluated areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has embraced a motto that encourages pupils to be brave, brilliant, and their best, fostering a sense of pride and ownership among students regarding their educational journey.
Pupils at Bassett Green Primary School exhibit positive behavior, demonstrating politeness and respect towards one another. They feel safe in their environment, attributing this sense of security to the calm and kind nature of their peers. The school has established a culture where students trust staff to address any issues, including bullying, effectively. The curriculum is well-received by students, who appreciate the engaging content that expands their knowledge and encourages thoughtful discussions. They express confidence in their preparedness for future educational challenges, particularly in understanding friendships, mental health, and personal safety.
The leadership team has made commendable strides in enhancing the curriculum to align with high expectations for all students. Teachers are focused on building knowledge progressively, connecting new learning to prior knowledge. For instance, students in Reception learn about plants through hands-on experiences, which are then applied in subsequent years. However, there are plans for further improvements in certain subjects, such as art and music, and to strengthen the transition between early years and key stage one.
While leaders have identified essential knowledge for each stage of learning, there is a need for more developed strategies to assess pupils' retention of this knowledge beyond core subjects like reading, writing, and mathematics. This gap can lead to situations where students advance to new topics without fully grasping the foundational knowledge required for success. The school has implemented a robust reading program, starting in Reception, where children learn phonics and practice reading regularly. This emphasis on reading has resulted in students developing a love for literature and the ability to engage deeply with texts.
Pupils are encouraged to take responsibility for their actions and show respect for others, fostering a sense of community within the school. They learn about important concepts such as friendships and consent, and engage in discussions about complex topics through big questions. The school effectively supports students with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that their individual strengths and needs are addressed through tailored plans. However, attendance among these students remains a concern, as low attendance limits their access to valuable learning opportunities.
The school has established a culture of high expectations for behavior and effort, with staff closely monitoring student conduct. This proactive approach has led to a significant reduction in incidents of poor behavior. The leadership team, along with governors, has conducted thorough reviews of their practices, allowing them to identify key priorities and ensure effective governance.
Safeguarding measures at Bassett Green Primary School are effective, with staff receiving comprehensive training to monitor the welfare of pupils. They are vigilant in reporting concerns and work collaboratively with families and external agencies to ensure student safety. Pupils are educated on how to stay safe and know how to seek help when needed, fostering a trusting relationship with the adults in the school.
Despite the overall positive outcomes, the school recognizes the need to enhance assessment strategies in subjects beyond the core areas and to improve attendance for students with special educational needs. By addressing these areas, Bassett Green Primary School aims to continue its trajectory of improvement and ensure that all pupils benefit fully from the educational opportunities available to them. The school community is committed to maintaining a supportive and enriching environment that promotes the well-being and success of every student.
