Hope Brook C of E Primary School in Longhope, Gloucestershire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 6, 2021. The school fosters a culture of learning and growth among both staff and pupils, emphasizing the importance of happiness and well-being. Leaders at the school have high expectations for all students, encouraging them to work hard and achieve their full potential. Pupils express a strong sense of support from their peers and teachers, highlighting the collaborative environment that promotes personal and academic growth.
Safety is a priority at Hope Brook, with pupils feeling secure and free from concerns about behavior. They are well-informed about the differences between minor conflicts and bullying, and they trust that adults will effectively address any issues that arise. The positive relationships between staff and students contribute to a harmonious learning atmosphere, where kindness and respect are integral to daily interactions.
From the outset, children in pre-school engage in cooperative play and learning, which sets a strong foundation for their development. The curriculum is designed to enhance pupils' understanding of diversity and acceptance, teaching them the value of kindness towards others, regardless of differences. The school has also placed a significant focus on mental health, particularly in helping pupils transition back to school after the national lockdowns. Techniques such as breathing exercises and mindfulness activities have proven effective in reducing anxiety and refocusing students on their learning.
The school excels in its approach to early reading, with a strong emphasis on developing language and communication skills from pre-school through to key stage one. The phonics program is well-structured, supported by training from a local English Hub, which enhances staff expertise. Additional reading sessions are provided for pupils at risk of falling behind, ensuring that all students become confident and fluent readers.
Mathematics instruction is also a strength, with engaging lessons that encourage pupils to enjoy learning and persevere through challenges. The curriculum is designed to support counting and language development in the early years, while older students benefit from daily sessions that reinforce number facts. Leaders are actively working to refine the mathematics curriculum further to enhance learning outcomes.
In history, the curriculum offers a broad range of content, helping pupils understand significant historical figures and events. However, there is a need for better continuity in building on prior knowledge as pupils progress, ensuring a deeper understanding of key concepts.
The school is inclusive, effectively supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities by tailoring learning to meet individual needs. Positive attitudes towards learning are evident, with pupils adhering to school rules and rarely disrupting lessons. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including cultural and sporting events, which enrich the educational experience.
Governors are well-informed about the school's priorities and actively engage in discussions about staff workload and well-being. They recognize the challenges posed by the pandemic and are committed to improving communication with parents to ensure they feel supported and involved in their children's education.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and respond to concerns about pupil welfare. The curriculum includes education on safety in the community and online, further enhancing pupils' understanding of how to stay safe.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that knowledge builds effectively across the curriculum and enhancing communication with parents. Overall, Hope Brook C of E Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective learning environment for its pupils.
