Rydon Primary School, located in Kingsteignton, Devon, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 18 and 19, 2022. The school is characterized by a positive learning environment where pupils express enjoyment in their educational experiences. The new headteacher has established high expectations, which are clearly communicated to students from the outset. The early years staff set a strong foundation for learning, creating calm and purposeful classrooms that foster eagerness among pupils. Students report that poor behavior is virtually nonexistent, and the warm relationships between staff and pupils contribute to a safe and supportive atmosphere where children feel comfortable discussing any concerns.
Bullying is reported to be rare, and when it does occur, staff address it promptly. The school promotes values such as respect, resilience, responsibility, and teamwork, which pupils embrace wholeheartedly. They appreciate the variety of clubs available and the opportunities to take on leadership roles, such as older pupils mentoring younger ones to help them acclimate to school life. Feedback from parents and carers is overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the care and support provided by the staff.
The school excels in its ambitious and well-structured curriculum, which builds effectively on pupils' prior knowledge. For instance, children in the early years learn to play musical instruments, and by Year 6, they are composing and performing music using various instruments. The curriculum encourages pupils to make connections across subjects, enhancing their overall understanding. Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are well supported, ensuring that all pupils achieve their potential.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with leaders fostering a love for reading from the start. The early years are filled with high-quality literature that supports learning, and older pupils are encouraged to read widely. Staff receive training to effectively deliver phonics instruction, and most pupils learn to read proficiently. However, some pupils who struggle with reading do not always have access to books that align with their phonics knowledge, which can hinder their progress.
The mathematics curriculum is thoughtfully designed, providing a strong foundation in early years and effective instruction in later years. Teachers utilize various methods to help pupils grasp mathematical concepts, and adjustments have been made to address learning gaps caused by the pandemic. Most pupils are catching up quickly due to additional support.
While leaders have improved their approach to assessing pupils' knowledge, there are instances where this information is not utilized effectively, resulting in some pupils not reaching their full potential. The personal development of pupils is well supported through a comprehensive personal, social, and health education curriculum, which addresses important societal issues and promotes healthy relationships.
The governing body plays an essential role in holding school leaders accountable for educational standards. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks. Leaders prioritize topics such as e-safety and relationship education, ensuring pupils understand how to stay safe.
To enhance the school's effectiveness, leaders must ensure that all pupils learning to read have access to appropriate books that match their phonics knowledge. Additionally, improving the use of assessment information across subjects will help all pupils achieve their full potential. Overall, Rydon Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
