Drove Primary School, located in Swindon, Wiltshire, has recently undergone an inspection by Ofsted, which took place on the 2nd and 3rd of July 2024. The school has been rated as good overall, with specific areas such as personal development receiving an outstanding rating. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision have all been rated as good. This inspection marks the first routine evaluation since the school opened as an academy, as it had not been previously inspected under section five of the Education Act 2005.
The headteacher, Bryony Bardwell, leads the school, which is part of The White Horse Federation. The trust is overseen by Simon Cowley, the interim chief executive officer, and a board of trustees chaired by Ninna Gibson. The school community is described as polite and welcoming, with both staff and pupils taking pride in being part of a close-knit environment that fosters a sense of belonging. Pupils feel safe and valued, and they appreciate the supportive relationships they have with their teachers.
Drove Primary School emphasizes a vision of roots to grow, wings to fly, which is evident in the way new pupils are integrated into the school community. The school celebrates diversity, with pupils from various backgrounds and cultures, and promotes kindness and patience among peers. Staff maintain high expectations for all students, encouraging them to strive for their best and rewarding positive choices in learning and behavior. The school environment is characterized by calmness and purpose, conducive to effective learning.
The curriculum is well-structured, providing a clear framework for essential knowledge from Reception to Year Six. It is designed to support pupils in building their understanding over time, with subject content broken down into manageable steps. However, while improvements have been made, some aspects of the curriculum are not fully effective in helping pupils build on prior knowledge, leading to gaps in understanding in certain subjects. The school recognizes the need for ongoing staff training to ensure all educators are equipped to deliver the curriculum effectively.
In the early years, children develop a range of skills across all areas of learning, with staff providing clear guidance on the importance of healthy habits and social interactions. Reading is prioritized from the start, with children engaging with books and developing their reading skills early on. The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that all students receive the tailored support they need to succeed.
The personal development curriculum is exceptional, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of the pupils and providing a variety of experiential learning opportunities. Pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of British values and actively participate in community initiatives, such as promoting healthy eating. The school fosters aspirations for future careers, exposing pupils to various professions.
The governance of the school is effective, with the trust and local governing committee strategically planning for the school's future and ensuring that decisions positively impact the school community. Safeguarding measures are robust, creating a safe environment for all pupils.
Overall, Drove Primary School is a supportive and inclusive educational institution that prioritizes the well-being and development of its pupils while striving for continuous improvement in teaching and learning practices. The school is well-positioned to build on its strengths and address areas for growth, ensuring that all pupils receive a high-quality education.
