Holy Trinity Church of England Academy, located in Quemerford, Calne, Wiltshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 3 and 4, 2021. The school provides a positive environment where pupils feel happy and safe, largely due to the kind and caring nature of the teachers. Strong relationships between staff and students contribute to a nurturing atmosphere that parents appreciate. The school emphasizes high expectations for pupil behavior, which students meet with politeness and courtesy. Instances of bullying are reported to be rare, and pupils express confidence in the staff's ability to address any issues effectively.
The school integrates its Christian values into the curriculum, fostering tolerance and respect among pupils. Students are encouraged to share their opinions and listen to others, promoting a culture of understanding and respect for differing viewpoints. Opportunities for leadership and responsibility are abundant, with pupils actively participating in the student council and various extracurricular activities, including art, football, and netball.
Leaders at Holy Trinity Academy are ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. They are aware of the school's strengths and weaknesses and are committed to continuous improvement. The teaching of reading is prioritized, with a new phonics scheme effectively supporting early reading instruction. Pupils who require additional help are quickly identified and receive appropriate support to help them catch up. The school has successfully instilled a love of reading among its students, who enjoy exploring a diverse range of authors and genres.
Most subjects are well-planned and sequenced, leading to enthusiastic engagement from pupils. In history, for example, students demonstrate an understanding of significant figures such as Isambard Kingdom Brunel. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly as pupils progress through the school. The curriculum does not always equip them with the necessary knowledge in a coherent order, which can hinder their ability to tackle more complex tasks in subjects like mathematics and history.
The school ensures that pupils with special educational needs receive the same curriculum as their peers, with regular reviews of effective support strategies. This begins in the early years, focusing on communication skills. Pupils exhibit good behavior in lessons and throughout the school, contributing to a calm learning environment. Staff show genuine interest in the emotional well-being of students, utilizing tools like worry boxes and private discussions to address concerns.
Holy Trinity Academy also emphasizes community involvement, with pupils participating in events that support local and global issues. Initiatives such as fundraising for wildlife conservation and outreach during lockdown demonstrate the school's commitment to developing responsible citizens. Staff express pride in being part of the school community and appreciate the support from leaders in managing their workload and prioritizing mental well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report signs of abuse or neglect. Leaders ensure that the curriculum includes lessons on safety, including online safety and the dangers of substance misuse. Overall, while Holy Trinity Church of England Academy is a good school, there are areas where further development is needed, particularly in ensuring that the curriculum is consistently sequenced to enhance pupils' learning experiences.
