Stowford School, located in Ivybridge, Devon, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 20 and 21, 2023. The school fosters an environment where learning is enjoyable and engaging for all students. Staff members maintain high expectations for both academic performance and behavior, and students consistently meet these expectations. The school emphasizes its core values of respect and friendship, which are evident in the conduct of the pupils. They demonstrate kindness and helpfulness towards both peers and adults, creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
Pupils take pride in their school responsibilities, including roles such as play leaders and lunchtime monitors, which promote harmonious interactions among students. The school encourages participation in various extracurricular activities that enhance learning experiences, such as educational trips that connect classroom knowledge with real-world applications. Leaders at Stowford School are ambitious about the curriculum and are actively working to ensure that all subjects are taught to high standards. However, there are variations in the development of different subjects, with some areas being more advanced than others.
Professional development for staff is prioritized, enabling them to present key knowledge effectively and engage students in discussions about their learning. Regular assessments and recaps are employed to gauge student understanding, although there are instances where teaching does not fully support the development of subject knowledge. The phonics and reading programs are implemented with precision, allowing children to start reading as soon as they enter school. This early focus on reading equips pupils with the skills needed to explore a wide range of literature and understand complex issues, such as racism and inequality.
The school provides strong pastoral support, beginning in the nursery, where positive relationships are established between staff and children. This nurturing environment fosters independence and curiosity among young learners. Pupils with special educational needs benefit from tailored support, with the special educational needs coordinator collaborating with staff and external agencies to address individual needs effectively.
Stowford School's curriculum promotes personal development, helping students understand moral values and the importance of social responsibility. Pupils are taught to recognize the difference between right and wrong and are encouraged to engage in discussions about global issues. The personal, social, and health education curriculum further supports students in understanding relationships and self-care, preparing them to be responsible citizens.
Staff satisfaction is high, with many expressing appreciation for the support provided by school leaders regarding their well-being and workload management. The school has effective safeguarding measures in place, ensuring that staff are well-trained to recognize signs of harm and respond appropriately. Pupils feel safe and are educated on how to maintain their safety, both in physical environments and online.
While Stowford School has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. The curriculum needs to be fully developed across all subjects to ensure consistent learning experiences for all pupils. Leaders are encouraged to focus on enhancing the quality of the curriculum and ensuring that teaching methods support the gradual building of knowledge over time. Overall, Stowford School continues to provide a positive educational experience for its students, with a commitment to excellence in teaching and learning.
