Whitelands Park Primary School, located in Thatcham, Berkshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on 11 and 12 October 2022. The school is known for its strong community ties, with staff who are well-acquainted with pupils and their families, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment. Pupils express pride in attending the school and enjoy their friendships, contributing to a positive atmosphere where kindness and respect are prevalent.
The leadership team at Whitelands Park has high aspirations for all pupils, encouraging them to be ambitious and broaden their horizons. Early years provision is particularly strong, with children quickly learning to collaborate and play together effectively. The school has established consistent and fair behavior management practices, which help pupils make positive choices in their learning and interactions. Instances of bullying are addressed promptly and effectively, fostering a culture of hard work and focus on learning.
Leaders are committed to providing pupils with experiences that extend beyond their immediate community, organizing trips that are closely linked to the curriculum while being mindful of costs to ensure accessibility for all. Parents appreciate the variety of enrichment activities available, including clubs that nurture pupils' talents and support their social and cultural development.
The school has made significant strides since its last inspection, with leaders actively seeking advice to enhance their improvement efforts. They have developed a broad and ambitious curriculum, particularly excelling in reading, mathematics, and music. The curriculum is well-planned and sequenced, ensuring that pupils acquire the necessary knowledge and skills in a logical order. Teachers are intentional in their lesson planning, incorporating frequent recaps to reinforce learning, which pupils find beneficial.
However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the writing, speaking, and listening components of the English curriculum. Leaders recognize the need to enhance these aspects to match the high standards seen in other subjects. Additionally, while staff are quick to identify and support pupils who require extra help, there is a need for more precise strategies for supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Current adaptations and interventions may not always be effective or regularly assessed, which can hinder some pupils' progress.
Pupils demonstrate a strong desire to succeed and generally behave well in lessons, although a small minority may occasionally disrupt others. Leaders take effective measures to minimize any negative impact on learning. Personal development is prioritized, with pupils learning about important issues such as healthy relationships and mental health. The school offers a range of clubs that foster character development and responsibility, including a charities club where pupils make decisions about supporting various causes.
The governance structure is effective, with the trust board and governors maintaining an accurate understanding of the school's strengths and areas for development. They work collaboratively with school leaders to create strategic plans and monitor their implementation. Staff feel supported in their well-being, with leaders considering their workload and striving to avoid unnecessary demands.
The safeguarding arrangements at Whitelands Park are robust, with a strong culture of safety and well-trained staff who are vigilant in their duties. Pupils feel secure and know how to seek help if needed. Overall, Whitelands Park Primary School is a good school that is committed to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils.
