Filton Avenue Primary School is a vibrant and inclusive educational environment located in Bristol. The recent inspection conducted on March 15 and 16, 2022, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good, reflecting significant improvements since the previous inspection, which had rated the school as requiring improvement. The school is characterized by its strong values of collaboration, aspiration, respect, and endeavor, which foster a positive atmosphere for both pupils and staff.
The quality of education at Filton Avenue is commendable, with a well-structured curriculum that is engaging and relevant to the local community. Staff members maintain high expectations for all pupils, who respond positively by demonstrating eagerness to learn and actively participating in lessons. The curriculum is designed to provide memorable experiences and challenges that encourage pupils to think critically and creatively.
Pupils benefit from strong relationships with staff, which contribute to a safe and supportive learning environment. They feel comfortable discussing any concerns with teachers, and the school effectively addresses any instances of bullying. The school promotes good behavior and encourages pupils to take on various responsibilities, such as being oracy champions or members of the school council, which enhances their engagement in school life.
The school excels in developing pupils' oracy skills, ensuring they can communicate effectively and confidently. Reading is prioritized, with staff fostering a love for literature through engaging story times and a diverse selection of books. However, there is a noted area for improvement regarding the alignment of reading materials with pupils' phonics knowledge, as some pupils struggle to catch up when their reading books do not match their learning level.
Mathematics instruction is strong, with a focus on developing fluency through varied activities. Pupils demonstrate good writing skills across the curriculum, and regular opportunities for recapping learning help reinforce their understanding. While subjects like history, music, and science are well sequenced, art is still in the early stages of development.
The school is proactive in supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the same ambitious curriculum as their peers. Additionally, a wide range of extracurricular activities is available, promoting both physical and mental well-being. The school emphasizes the importance of fundamental British values, encouraging pupils to become responsible citizens.
Strong communication with parents and carers is established from the early years, which was particularly beneficial during the COVID-19 pandemic. The trust leaders share the school's high expectations and are focused on continuous improvement in educational quality. Staff morale is high, with leaders being considerate of their workload and well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at Filton Avenue Primary School are effective, with staff well-trained to identify and address any concerns regarding pupil safety. The personal development curriculum is tailored to address local community risks, and external agencies, such as the local police, contribute to enhancing pupils' understanding of safety.
In summary, Filton Avenue Primary School has made significant strides in providing a quality education and fostering a supportive environment for its pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in aligning reading materials with phonics knowledge, the overall effectiveness of the school is commendable, and it continues to work towards enhancing the educational experience for all its students.
