Austrey CofE Primary School, located in Atherstone, Warwickshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 4, 2023. The school is characterized by a welcoming atmosphere where pupils feel happy and well cared for. This positive environment is established from the early years, ensuring that children are smoothly integrated into school life. The leadership team sets high expectations for behavior, and pupils respond exceptionally well, demonstrating politeness and respect during lessons and playtimes.
Lunchtimes at the school are lively, filled with engaging activities such as football coaching and reading sessions. The school also hosts whole-school productions during Christmas and Easter, which are highlights of the academic calendar. Pupils take their leadership roles seriously, with many participating as worship councillors who lead collective worship. Additionally, school councillors have been involved in local initiatives, such as a road safety project aimed at improving parking near the school. Older students enjoy mentoring younger pupils in reading and serving as playground buddies.
The curriculum at Austrey CofE Primary School is broad and ambitious, with a recent emphasis on enhancing reading skills. Most pupils achieve well in reading, writing, and mathematics. Leaders have redesigned the curriculum to focus on essential concepts and knowledge, and most staff possess the necessary subject knowledge to deliver the curriculum effectively. However, there are instances where a small number of staff are uncertain about deepening pupils' understanding of key concepts. Leaders are actively addressing this issue. Additionally, there are occasions when teachers do not consistently verify that pupils have fully grasped important concepts before progressing to new material, which can result in gaps in knowledge.
Reading has been prioritized, with all staff receiving training on the new phonics curriculum introduced earlier in the year. This training has ensured that phonics is taught as intended, and regular assessments help teachers tailor instruction to meet pupils' needs. Most pupils perform well in phonics lessons, and those needing additional support receive extra sessions, which positively impacts their reading skills. Pupils are encouraged to read at home, and many express enjoyment in reading, including for pleasure.
The identification of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) has improved, with leaders collaborating with external agencies to meet these pupils' needs. However, some pupils with SEND do not benefit as much from the ambitious curriculum as their peers. Relationships in the early years are strong, with staff providing excellent care and promoting a love for reading through enthusiastic storytelling. Children demonstrate kindness and attentiveness, following instructions well.
Pupils take pride in their roles within the school, such as being school councillors, and they have contributed to projects like the redevelopment of a wildlife area. The school offers a variety of inclusive extracurricular activities, including football, karate, gymnastics, and craft sessions. Year six pupils participate in an annual residential trip with peers from nearby schools to prepare for secondary education. Educational trips linked to the curriculum, such as visits to local castles, further enrich the learning experience.
Governors and trustees hold school leaders accountable and are attentive to staff workload and well-being, ensuring that staff feel supported. The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with appropriate recruitment checks and up-to-date training for staff. Staff are vigilant in identifying and reporting concerns regarding pupil safety, understanding the importance of addressing even minor issues. Pupils are aware of whom to approach with worries and receive education on online safety.
To improve further, the school needs to ensure that all staff consistently check pupils' understanding of key concepts before moving on to new learning, as gaps in knowledge can develop. Additionally, leaders should enhance staff expertise in adapting the curriculum for pupils with SEND to ensure they are adequately prepared for the next stages of their education. Overall, Austrey CofE Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective learning environment for its pupils.
