Salcombe Church of England Primary School, located in Devon, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 15, 2021. The school fosters a strong sense of community, encouraging everyone to be part of Team Salcombe. Leaders utilize the school's coastal location to enhance learning experiences, such as paddle boarding activities facilitated by local businesses. The school emphasizes high aspirations for its pupils, inviting various professionals to inspire students about potential career paths.
Pupils at Salcombe are noted for their politeness and confidence, demonstrating the ability to engage in conversations with others. The school has effective conflict resolution strategies in place, which help students address issues collaboratively, resulting in a low incidence of bullying. The school has implemented a behavior management system that rewards good behavior with a school-based currency, which pupils can save and spend in a school shop run by students.
While most pupils settle well into their learning, a small number may struggle initially. Teachers effectively use a behavior chart to support these students, ensuring that any disruptions are brief and do not hinder overall learning. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to explore historical figures and local significance. Leaders have carefully organized the curriculum for mixed-age classes, ensuring that pupils encounter new and engaging content each year.
In the early years, children quickly learn to read through a structured phonics curriculum that builds their confidence and enjoyment in reading. The reading program is particularly effective for pupils with special educational needs, with many making exceptional progress. Teachers promote a love for reading by regularly reading to pupils and encouraging them to explore book series, rewarding their achievements with new books from a vending machine.
The mathematics curriculum is also well-designed, with leaders outlining a series of incremental steps for pupils to follow. Early years teachers introduce mathematical language and concepts through practical activities, helping pupils grasp complex ideas as they progress. Staff provide various tools and resources to support pupils in understanding challenging concepts, reinforcing their learning.
Leaders are committed to continuous improvement, involving the special educational needs coordinator in curriculum design to ensure adaptations meet all pupils' needs. While teachers exhibit enthusiasm for their subjects, there are areas where the curriculum could be clearer, particularly in subjects like Spanish, where pupils feel they lack sufficient phonics knowledge.
Pupils exhibit commendable behavior, often displaying kindness and consideration towards adults and peers. The school has established a set of positive attitudes towards learning, represented by fun characters chosen by the pupils. Although some older pupils noted occasional unsettled behavior, teachers manage these situations effectively.
The school excels in planning for the broader development of pupils, with initiatives like the pupil-led eco council earning recognition for their environmental efforts. Leaders are also fostering international connections to enhance cultural understanding among pupils.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff vigilant about potential risks to pupils' safety and well-being. Leaders collaborate with external agencies to support families in need, demonstrating a strong commitment to vulnerable pupils.
To further enhance the school, leaders are encouraged to refine curriculum plans to ensure that knowledge is logically sequenced across all subjects, allowing pupils to build on prior learning effectively. Overall, Salcombe Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational environment for its pupils.
