Tatworth Primary School, located in Chard, Somerset, was inspected on 15 and 16 March 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with consistent ratings of good across various aspects including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has maintained its good rating since the previous inspection in March 2019.
Pupils at Tatworth Primary School exhibit enthusiasm for learning and are motivated to achieve their best. They are encouraged to develop aspirations and self-belief, with all students learning a musical instrument and engaging in creative projects, such as designing glass tiles for a well-being garden. The school has resumed educational visits, enriching the learning experience, as seen with Year 1 pupils visiting a local museum to learn about John Stringfellow.
The staff at Tatworth Primary School uphold high expectations for pupil behaviour, fostering an environment where students are attentive and collaborative. Pupils report a friendly atmosphere with rare instances of bullying, and they feel comfortable sharing concerns with trusted adults or through designated channels like the ‘worry monster’. In the early years, children demonstrate focus and perseverance during independent tasks, such as building bug habitats, and they actively participate in health and exercise programs.
The curriculum is well-structured, outlining essential knowledge for each subject and year group. Pupils excel particularly in physical education and design technology, with a well-planned history curriculum that helps them understand significant events and their implications. For instance, students learn about the Great Fire of London and its historical context. The art curriculum encourages pupils to take pride in their work and articulate the techniques they have employed.
However, some subjects within the curriculum are relatively new, and leaders acknowledge the need for further guidance and support for teachers to ensure effective implementation. In a few subjects, key knowledge has not been emphasized sufficiently, which can hinder pupils' understanding and retention of important concepts.
Reading instruction is effective, with children in the Reception class developing a strong foundation in phonics and a love for literature. Teachers monitor pupils' progress in reading and mathematics closely, providing additional support for those at risk of falling behind, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school has successfully addressed learning gaps resulting from the pandemic, particularly in mathematics, by encouraging pupils to apply their knowledge in practical contexts.
While teachers are adept at assessing reading and mathematics, there is room for improvement in evaluating understanding across all subjects. Leaders are working on developing assessment systems for foundation subjects to better identify gaps in knowledge.
The school promotes inclusivity, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs learn alongside their peers. Leaders provide teachers with the necessary training to support these students effectively. Pupils learn about respect, tolerance, and democracy, participating in school governance through voting for representatives.
Governors play an active role in holding school leaders accountable for educational quality and staff well-being, ensuring that improvement plans are effective. The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with regular training for staff and effective communication with external agencies when necessary. Pupils feel safe and are educated on personal safety and online security.
In summary, Tatworth Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education, fostering a positive learning environment, and ensuring the well-being of its pupils and staff. While there are areas for growth, particularly in curriculum implementation and assessment practices, the school is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of improvement.
