River Mead School, located in Melksham, Wiltshire, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its strengths and areas for improvement. The school is led by headteacher Louise Harrison and is part of The Equa Mead Trust, overseen by CEO Paul Skipp and a board of trustees chaired by Roger Townsend. The inspection took place on October 1 and 2, 2024, and the school received a rating of good in several key areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and early years provision. Leadership and management were rated as outstanding.
The school is characterized by a strong commitment to supporting its pupils, with staff going above and beyond to ensure that students thrive. Parents have expressed their appreciation for the school's dedication, noting that staff understand their children well and care deeply about their well-being. Pupils feel safe, happy, and well-supported, and they value the opportunities provided to them. The school fosters a sense of community, with students treating each other with respect and kindness.
River Mead School sets high expectations for all its pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The leadership team is aware of the challenges faced by many families and has implemented effective strategies to support students in overcoming these obstacles. The school has made significant efforts to address attendance issues that arose during the COVID-19 pandemic, working diligently to re-engage pupils and close gaps in their learning.
The school excels in its support for disadvantaged pupils, with a curriculum designed to meet their specific needs. Regular assessments allow staff to identify and address misconceptions promptly, leading to improved outcomes. The additional funding allocated for these pupils is utilized effectively, providing a range of support services for both students and their families.
The curriculum is well-structured, with clear expectations for what pupils will learn and when. This clarity enables staff to ensure that younger students acquire the necessary skills for future success. The focus on language and communication in the nursery has been particularly beneficial, contributing to improved outcomes in later stages of education. The teaching of early reading is a notable strength, with staff providing high-quality instruction that helps pupils develop their reading and writing skills from an early age.
While the school has made strides in improving subject teaching, some older pupils with SEND have not received the specialized support needed to strengthen their phonics knowledge. This gap has affected their reading and writing abilities. Additionally, while behaviour in lessons is commendable, expectations for behaviour during social times are not as high, leading to inconsistencies in pupil conduct outside of the classroom.
Pupils' personal development is integrated into all aspects of school life, with opportunities for involvement in extracurricular activities that promote the performing arts, sports, and social skills. The school emphasizes the importance of understanding diverse beliefs and values, fostering a sense of community and respect among students.
Staff morale is high, with teachers feeling supported in their roles. The school effectively manages workloads and provides necessary training to ensure that staff can deliver the curriculum effectively. Safeguarding measures are in place and deemed effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
In summary, River Mead School demonstrates a strong commitment to the education and well-being of its pupils, with effective leadership and a supportive community. While there are areas for improvement, particularly regarding behaviour expectations and support for older pupils with SEND, the overall quality of education and personal development opportunities are commendable. The school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory and further enhance the learning experience for all students.
