Pewsey Primary School, located in Wiltshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 8 and 9, 2022. The school fosters a welcoming environment where pupils feel proud to attend. From the moment they enter, students experience a sense of belonging and support, which contributes to their positive learning experiences across various subjects. The school emphasizes the importance of friendships, and pupils engage well with one another and their teachers. Early years children display confidence and receive attentive care, setting a strong foundation for their educational journey.
Parents express overwhelming satisfaction with the school, highlighting its warm and safe atmosphere that aids in the transition of pupils into and out of the school. The leadership, including the executive headteacher and staff, maintain high expectations for student behavior and conduct. Clear routines are established, contributing to a calm and orderly environment. Pupils exhibit positive behavior both in lessons and around the school, trusting adults to help them navigate their emotions and resolve conflicts. Instances of bullying are reported as rare, with students confident in the adults' ability to address any issues swiftly.
The school promotes a culture of participation, with pupils engaging in various clubs such as sports, choir, and art. They take on leadership roles, including playground leaders and members of the school council, which fosters a sense of responsibility and community involvement. The love of reading is a shared value among staff and pupils, supported by a newly introduced phonics program. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge, benefiting from regular training, and provide necessary support to help pupils catch up if they fall behind. This focus on reading begins in the early years, where children are introduced to rhymes and stories, and continues through to older pupils who explore a rich variety of texts.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. In a few subjects, the checks conducted by subject leaders on pupil learning are still developing. This means that leaders do not yet have a comprehensive understanding of how well pupils are grasping the curriculum in these areas. It is essential for subject leaders to implement effective assessments to monitor pupil progress and inform future teaching strategies.
Pewsey Primary School demonstrates a commitment to supporting pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Staff ensure that these pupils receive appropriate assistance, particularly those with complex needs. The leadership team is proactive in making continuous improvements to the curriculum, particularly in mathematics, where a strong foundation is established from an early age. Teachers frequently assess pupil learning, enabling them to tackle complex problems with confidence.
Pupils enjoy learning and exhibit good behavior in lessons, with low levels of disruption. The school provides a range of opportunities for wider development, instilling values of respect and tolerance. Pupils understand the importance of healthy relationships and express confidence in their ability to be themselves within the school community. The governing body effectively holds leaders accountable, fostering a culture of mutual trust and respect among staff, who take pride in their work at the school.
The safeguarding arrangements at Pewsey Primary School are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns. Leaders prioritize the health and well-being of pupils, ensuring that they receive the necessary support promptly. Overall, Pewsey Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong emphasis on reading, positive behavior, and community involvement, while also recognizing areas for further development.
