Watermore Primary School, located in Frampton Cotterell, South Gloucestershire, was inspected on 20 and 21 February 2024. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, maintaining a high standard of education across various aspects including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school was previously rated outstanding during its last inspection in May 2012, and the recent evaluation reflects a commitment to maintaining quality despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The school environment is described as happy and conducive to learning, with a strong emphasis on the six ‘gem powers’ that promote kindness, respect, and resilience among pupils. Parents have expressed positive sentiments regarding the welcoming atmosphere and the care provided to both students and families. The school has established high expectations for behavior, which pupils respond to positively, demonstrating calmness and politeness throughout the school day. Early years children adapt well to routines, showing eagerness to learn and interact with their peers.
Pupils feel safe and supported, enjoying warm relationships with both their classmates and staff. The school fosters an environment where pupils can express their emotions and seek help when needed. A variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and arts, are available, allowing pupils to engage in school life actively. Opportunities for leadership and representation, such as joining the eco committee or school council, further enhance their sense of belonging and pride in the school community.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, ensuring that pupils acquire essential knowledge at appropriate times. The school has effective systems in place to monitor and evaluate educational outcomes, although there are areas for improvement. Specifically, the school needs to refine its approach to identifying gaps in achievement between different pupil groups to better understand and address any shortcomings.
Staff development is prioritized, with training enhancing teachers' subject knowledge and instructional skills. In mathematics, for instance, teachers effectively communicate new concepts, enabling pupils to grasp complex ideas and build on prior knowledge. The school also promotes a love of reading, with pupils engaging with diverse texts and developing their comprehension skills. Early years pupils learn phonics effectively, and those who struggle receive timely support to catch up.
While most subjects are taught well, some areas require more robust assessment practices to ensure that pupils retain knowledge over time. The school is working on embedding systems to evaluate its actions comprehensively, which will help in identifying the impact of its initiatives on pupil learning.
Pupil attendance is managed effectively, with the school collaborating with parents to address any issues promptly. Personal development is a notable strength, with pupils participating in various activities that broaden their understanding of the world. They learn about equality and fundamental values, such as democracy, through engaging experiences.
Governors play an active role in the school's governance, demonstrating ambition and accountability. They possess a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, using their expertise to support school leaders.
The safeguarding arrangements at Watermore Primary School are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare prioritized. Overall, the school is committed to continuous improvement, striving to enhance the educational experience for all its pupils while maintaining a supportive and nurturing environment.
