Great Binfields Primary School, located in Basingstoke, Hampshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on November 2 and 3, 2022. The school provides a welcoming and inclusive environment where pupils feel happy and safe. Leaders emphasize core values such as respect, cooperation, and honesty, which are integral to the school's culture. Parents express satisfaction with the supportive nature of the school, highlighting the genuine care staff have for each child's well-being and development.
Pupils exhibit positive behavior both in classrooms and during playtime, engaging actively with the diverse outdoor equipment available. They demonstrate a strong understanding of the importance of respect and empathy towards others. The relationships between pupils and staff are characterized by positivity, contributing to a safe atmosphere where bullying is addressed promptly when it occurs. Pupils are aware of how to seek help from trusted adults, reinforcing their sense of security.
The school offers a broad curriculum that caters to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders have carefully designed the curriculum to ensure that essential skills are taught from the start of Reception. In subjects like music and art, the curriculum is sequenced effectively, allowing pupils to build their knowledge progressively. For instance, Year 6 pupils can confidently read and compose music due to the structured approach taken throughout their education.
However, there are areas for improvement. In some subjects, such as history, the essential knowledge that pupils need to learn is not fully defined, leading to an overemphasis on skills rather than knowledge acquisition. Additionally, teachers' understanding of how to help pupils retain their learning varies across the curriculum. While tasks are engaging, they do not always facilitate the secure recall of knowledge, which can hinder pupils' overall achievement.
Reading is a priority at Great Binfields, with themed reading weeks and daily reading sessions. Phonics instruction begins in Reception, using a rigorous program that matches books to the sounds pupils have learned. Targeted interventions are in place for those at risk of falling behind, ensuring that all pupils receive the support they need to develop their reading skills.
The school is committed to the personal development of its pupils, preparing them for life in modern Britain. Leaders focus on fostering an understanding of diverse cultures and challenging stereotypes through various learning experiences. The governing body works collaboratively with school leaders to maintain high standards and support continuous improvement. Staff feel well-supported in managing their workload, contributing to a positive working environment.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance established by leaders. Comprehensive systems are in place to identify pupils at risk, and record-keeping is thorough. Pupils feel safe and know where to seek help, with education on safety, including online safety, being a key focus.
In summary, Great Binfields Primary School is a good school that provides a nurturing environment for its pupils. While there are strengths in the curriculum and personal development, there are areas that require attention to ensure that all subjects are equally well-defined and that teaching strategies effectively support knowledge retention. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address these challenges moving forward.
