Bellefield Primary and Nursery School, located in Trowbridge, Wiltshire, has recently undergone an inspection on the 27th and 28th of February 2024. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, reflecting the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which have also been rated as good. This marks a consistent performance since the previous inspection, which also rated the school as good.
The school prides itself on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students. The motto, Growing together to be the best we can be, encapsulates the school's commitment to fostering a supportive community. Staff, leaders, and governors have collaborated effectively to develop a rich curriculum that sets high expectations for all pupils. Children in the early years quickly adapt to the school’s routines and demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning as they progress through the school.
Pupils benefit from a wide range of extracurricular activities, including yoga, instrumental lessons, and various clubs such as Taekwondo, drama, and dance. The school emphasizes the importance of reading, with initiatives like Buzz the reading dog, which encourages pupils to read in a relaxed and enjoyable setting. This focus on reading has led to pupils expressing that reading is both fun and calming.
The school has made significant strides in curriculum development, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, have access to a well-structured learning experience. The curriculum has been carefully sequenced to help pupils grasp essential concepts and skills. However, the recent changes have not yet fully reflected in published outcomes, indicating that more time is needed for these improvements to manifest in academic results.
Early reading instruction is delivered effectively, with staff regularly assessing children to match them with appropriate reading materials. Support is also provided for older pupils who struggle with reading, enabling them to develop fluency and a love for various genres. The school has high aspirations for all pupils, including those with education, health, and care plans, and works closely with external agencies to ensure they receive the necessary support.
While the school has identified key vocabulary for pupils to learn, there are areas where the identification of knowledge gaps could be improved. In some subjects, the precise gaps in pupils' understanding are not always addressed, which can hinder their learning. The school is aware of this and is working to enhance the assessment of learning gaps to ensure that all pupils can achieve their full potential.
Positive relationships between adults and pupils are evident throughout the school. Staff in the early years are attentive to children's needs while promoting independence. Older pupils understand the school rules and the importance of right and wrong. Although attendance is slightly below national levels, the school actively works to improve this by collaborating with outside agencies to provide additional support.
The school has implemented a program to teach pupils essential life skills, ensuring they understand protected characteristics and the importance of reasonable adjustments for individuals with different needs. Pupils demonstrate a solid understanding of fundamental British values and can articulate their significance in their lives.
Governors have a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for development. They hold leaders accountable for progress and have worked collaboratively to implement lasting changes. The school has sought external advice and acted on it promptly, resulting in a positive impact on the education provided to pupils.
The safeguarding arrangements at Bellefield Primary and Nursery School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. The school is committed to continuous improvement and is focused on providing high-quality education for every pupil. The inspection highlights the school's dedication to fostering a nurturing and inclusive atmosphere while striving for academic excellence.
