Sampford Peverell Church of England Primary School, located in Tiverton, Devon, has undergone significant improvements since its previous inspection in 2017. The school is now rated as good in overall effectiveness, leadership and management, quality of teaching, personal development, behavior and welfare, outcomes for pupils, and early years provision. The leadership team, supported by the Ventrus Multi-Academy Trust, has established high expectations and a clear vision for improvement, resulting in rapid advancements in pupil behavior and academic performance.
Pupils at the school are well-prepared for their future educational journeys, demonstrating good progress in reading, writing, and mathematics. The teaching of phonics has been particularly effective, leading to increased success in the Year 1 phonics screening check, especially among disadvantaged pupils. The curriculum is broad and balanced, allowing pupils to develop a solid understanding across various subjects, including the arts and sciences. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that the most able pupils in key stage 2 are sufficiently challenged in mathematics and writing.
The school fosters a safe and nurturing environment where pupils feel secure and valued. Parents express confidence in the school's ability to care for their children, and the majority report that their children enjoy attending school. The personal development of pupils is prioritized, with initiatives in place to promote physical and mental well-being. The school encourages pupils to take on responsibilities, such as being mental health champions, which contributes to their overall development.
Despite the positive aspects, there are still challenges to address. Some pupils in key stage 2 do not consistently take pride in their written work, and the quality of writing in theme books does not match the high standards seen in English books. Additionally, the progress of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in writing is variable, as tasks are not always tailored to their individual needs. Leaders recognize the need for more precise monitoring of these pupils' progress to ensure they receive the support necessary for improvement.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors actively engaging in training and providing a balance of challenge and support to the leadership team. They are committed to ensuring that funding is used effectively to benefit all pupils, particularly those who are disadvantaged. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with leaders maintaining vigilance to ensure the safety and well-being of all pupils.
In the early years, children receive a solid foundation for their education, with most entering Year 1 having achieved a good level of development. The provision for two-year-olds is particularly effective, with staff providing a nurturing environment that meets their developmental needs. The early years leader is knowledgeable and ensures that assessments are accurate, allowing for timely interventions when necessary.
Overall, Sampford Peverell Church of England Primary School has made commendable progress since its last inspection. The leadership team is dedicated to continuous improvement, and while there are areas that require further attention, the school is well-positioned to build on its successes and enhance the educational experience for all its pupils.
