Cotham Gardens Primary School, located in Bristol, has undergone an ungraded inspection from January 10 to 12, 2023. The overall judgement remains good, but evidence suggests that a graded inspection might yield a lower rating. The next inspection will be graded. Pupils express high levels of satisfaction with the school, feeling welcomed and included. They demonstrate tolerance and curiosity about each other's diverse backgrounds, which the school actively celebrates. Safety is a priority, with infrequent bullying incidents that are promptly addressed by staff. Pupils exhibit considerate behavior and generally perform well in lessons.
The school provides a broad and balanced curriculum, particularly in core subjects, which is coherent from early years to key stage two. However, this coherence is not consistent across all subjects, leading to gaps in knowledge retention and recall. While pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive effective support, some pupils do not learn as well as they could. Engagement in extracurricular activities is high, with many pupils participating in choirs, sports, and eco-monitoring, fostering a sense of community and responsibility.
Leaders have prioritized reading, implementing a systematic approach to early reading instruction. Staff are well-trained, and children quickly learn to decode words. However, there are discrepancies in the reading materials provided to Year 2 pupils, which do not align with the phonics programme. Additional support for struggling readers is available but can be slow to show results. Staff maintain high expectations for behavior, and children learn to collaborate effectively. Individualized behavior plans are in place for pupils with SEND, although unclear instructions can lead to behavioral issues.
The curriculum for personal development is well-structured, addressing important aspects of growing up and fostering an understanding of relationships and diverse beliefs. Staff report a supportive work environment, though some express concerns about management practices. Governance is actively working to address these issues, with a commitment to driving improvements.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns. Leaders respond promptly to issues, ensuring that pupils and families receive necessary support. Whistle-blowing practices are being strengthened to enhance staff awareness. Pupils are educated on safety, particularly regarding online risks and safe travel to school, and they know whom to approach with concerns.
To improve, the school must focus on ensuring that the curriculum is well-sequenced and effectively implemented across all subjects. This will enhance pupils' knowledge retention and their ability to tackle more complex work. Additionally, assessment practices need to be strengthened in subjects where they are currently lacking, allowing leaders to evaluate the curriculum's impact more effectively. By addressing these areas, Cotham Gardens Primary School can continue to foster an environment where all pupils thrive academically and personally.
