Fynamore Primary School, located in Calne, Wiltshire, has received a positive inspection report, reflecting its commitment to providing a high-quality education. The school has been rated as good in all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The inspection took place on 21 and 22 November 2023, and the school has maintained its good rating since the previous inspection in February 2018.
The school prides itself on its inclusive ethos, aiming to create a safe and nurturing environment where every child can thrive. Pupils are encouraged to develop a passion for learning and are prepared for the next stages of their education. They understand the importance of respect and responsibility, learning about diversity and equality. The school fosters a sense of community, with pupils actively participating in local events, such as the Remembrance Day service.
Behaviour at Fynamore Primary is generally good, with most pupils displaying positive attitudes and manners. The school promotes kindness and rewards good behaviour through initiatives like the values star tokens. Bullying is rare, and pupils feel secure knowing they can approach adults for support if needed.
The curriculum is designed to build knowledge and understanding over time, addressing previous weaknesses in educational provision. The school has implemented a new phonics programme and improved its mathematics curriculum, prioritising reading from the outset. Staff are well-trained to support pupils in becoming confident readers, and most pupils read books that align with their phonetic knowledge, enhancing their fluency. The school encourages a love for reading, with pupils expressing enthusiasm for their favourite books and authors.
While the school has made significant strides in curriculum development, some subjects in the wider curriculum are still in the early stages of implementation. Teachers are focused on helping pupils build on their existing knowledge, but there have been changes in subject leadership that have affected the depth of understanding in some areas. Assessment practices are in place, but there is a need for improvement in how assessment information is utilized to inform teaching and learning, ensuring that all pupils can deepen their understanding.
The school environment is calm, with clear expectations for behaviour. Most pupils understand these expectations and respond positively, demonstrating resilience and a willingness to persevere through challenges. Leadership roles are available for pupils, fostering a sense of responsibility and pride in contributing to the school community.
Governance is effective, with leaders having a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Staff appreciate the support and training they receive from leadership, which contributes to a positive working environment.
The safeguarding arrangements at Fynamore Primary are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported. The school has a strong commitment to identifying and meeting the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, providing appropriate adaptations to ensure they can access the full curriculum.
To continue improving, the school needs to enhance the precision of assessment information in some subjects, ensuring it effectively informs teaching and learning. Additionally, developing expertise in subject leadership will be crucial for ensuring that pupils learn and retain essential curriculum content. Overall, Fynamore Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for all its pupils.
