Malmesbury Church of England Primary School is a vibrant and inclusive educational environment where pupils thrive. The school has received a 'Good' rating in its recent inspection, reflecting its commitment to providing a high-quality education. The headteacher, Stephen Heal, leads a dedicated staff team that prioritizes the well-being and academic success of all students. The school operates under a single-academy trust, overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Laurence Mussett.
Pupils at Malmesbury are proud of their school and the diverse opportunities available to them. The school fosters a warm and welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that every child feels included and valued. This positive environment contributes to high attendance rates, as students are eager to come to school. The school's motto, growing together in wisdom and love; discovering life and all its fullness, encapsulates its ethos and the values it instills in its pupils.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, designed to help pupils acquire essential knowledge across various subjects. In mathematics, for instance, the curriculum is sequenced to build on prior learning, enabling students to develop a strong foundation. Staff receive ongoing training to enhance their subject knowledge and teaching practices, ensuring that they can effectively support pupils' learning. The school emphasizes the importance of retrieval practice, allowing students to revisit and reinforce their understanding of previously learned material.
Behaviour at Malmesbury is exemplary, with pupils demonstrating high levels of engagement and respect for one another. The school has established clear routines that promote a calm and orderly learning environment, allowing all students to focus on their studies. The personal development of pupils is also a priority, with the school providing guidance on managing risks and becoming responsible citizens. Students participate in community activities, such as singing at local residential homes, which fosters a sense of belonging and social responsibility.
The school is particularly attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Staff are well-equipped to make necessary adaptations to the curriculum, ensuring that these pupils can progress alongside their peers. The school's commitment to supporting all learners is evident in the positive feedback from parents, who appreciate the care and attention their children receive.
Reading is a key focus at Malmesbury, with staff dedicated to instilling a love of literature in their students. Pupils are exposed to a wide range of genres, and those who struggle with reading receive targeted support to help them catch up. The phonics programme is effectively implemented, enabling children to develop strong decoding and blending skills.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement, particularly in the use of assessment in a small number of subjects. Ensuring that assessment practices are precise will help identify gaps in pupils' knowledge and support their continued learning. Overall, Malmesbury Church of England Primary School is a nurturing and effective educational institution that prioritizes the holistic development of its pupils, preparing them for future success.