Blockley Church of England Primary School, located in Gloucestershire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on March 21 and 22, 2023. The school provides a safe and nurturing environment where pupils feel happy and valued. Relationships between staff and students are warm and supportive, contributing to a positive atmosphere conducive to learning. Parents express satisfaction with the school, noting the high expectations set by leaders and the care provided by staff.
Pupils demonstrate a genuine enjoyment of learning, engaging enthusiastically in various activities, such as designing gliders and exploring electrical circuits during science week. They also appreciate educational trips, like visits to local science museums. The school ensures that all pupils can participate in these enriching experiences without barriers. Behaviour in the school is commendable, with pupils following routines and displaying positive attitudes towards their education. This results in a calm learning environment where disruptions are rare, and instances of bullying are infrequent. When bullying does occur, staff respond promptly and effectively.
The school encourages pupils to engage with the local community, exemplified by initiatives such as creating a gingerbread man art trail during Christmas and singing for local residents. Pupils value their roles in the school council, feeling that their voices are heard and their ideas considered. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, designed to prepare pupils for future challenges. Leaders have a clear vision for educational quality, supported by trustees who provide both challenge and assistance to ensure continuous improvement.
The curriculum is logically sequenced, with a focus on essential knowledge and skills across subjects. In mathematics, for instance, pupils develop strong reasoning and problem-solving abilities, while younger students build a solid understanding of numbers. The curriculum in other subjects builds on early learning, allowing pupils to gain detailed knowledge, such as understanding chronology in history. Teachers utilize their subject expertise to present information clearly and model effective communication skills. There is a strong emphasis on vocabulary development, particularly in the early years, where poetry and rhymes are used to enhance language skills.
Reading is a priority at the school, with a rich literary environment that fosters a love for books. Pupils begin learning to read as soon as they join, benefiting from a well-structured early reading curriculum that promotes accuracy and fluency. As they progress, pupils engage with carefully selected texts that sustain their interest and enjoyment.
While assessment practices are effective in identifying knowledge gaps in some subjects, there is room for improvement in others. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that assessment is consistently utilized across all subjects to pinpoint and address gaps in learning. The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate teaching and additional support.
The personal development curriculum equips pupils with knowledge about healthy relationships and mental well-being. They learn to cooperate and play together, fostering a sense of community. The school promotes respect for diverse faiths and backgrounds, teaching pupils about democracy and citizenship through participation in school votes. Staff are dedicated and receive professional development that supports their well-being and workload management.
The safeguarding arrangements at Blockley Church of England Primary School are effective, with pupils feeling safe and supported. Staff are trained to identify risks and take appropriate action to protect children. Overall, the school is committed to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for all its pupils.
