Archbishop Wake Church of England Primary School in Blandford Forum, Dorset, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 24 and 25, 2023. The school is characterized by its commitment to seven core values: happiness, perseverance, cooperation, kindness, courage, honesty, and respect. These values are evident in the positive atmosphere of the school, where pupils are happy and engaged in their learning. The school promotes a motto of aiming high and achieving, which resonates with the students as they collaborate during playtimes and engage in various creative activities.
The leadership at Archbishop Wake has established high expectations for behavior, and pupils respond positively to these standards. The school emphasizes the importance of being ready, respectful, and safe, fostering an environment where kindness prevails. Pupils feel secure in the knowledge that bullying is rare and that any issues will be addressed promptly by adults. The presence of anti-bullying ambassadors and peer mediators further supports a culture of safety and respect among students.
The school is dedicated to ensuring that all pupils receive the support they need to succeed academically. This commitment is reflected in the high aspirations set for every student, which is recognized by parents. Many parents express appreciation for the school's supportive and helpful nature. The curriculum is well-structured and sequenced, allowing pupils to build on their learning over time. While most subjects show strong achievement, there are a few foundation subjects where pupils could perform better. Leaders are aware of this and are actively working to refine the curriculum in these areas.
A notable strength of the school is its focus on reading. Leaders understand that reading is fundamental to accessing the wider curriculum and have implemented a phonics program that begins in the early years. This ensures that all children learn to read effectively, with reading materials tailored to their learning stages. Older pupils demonstrate enthusiasm for reading, both in their independent choices and in the books shared by staff.
Teachers at Archbishop Wake are well-trained and consider the best methods to present materials, ensuring that all pupils can achieve their potential. In mathematics, for instance, teachers utilize models to clarify key concepts, and a variety of resources are available to support learning. The curriculum is adapted to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders are proactive in identifying these pupils and tailoring their learning experiences accordingly.
The school environment is calm and purposeful, with positive behavior being the norm. Pupils are articulate and eager to share their experiences, demonstrating a sense of responsibility in their conduct. While there are occasional instances of pupils being off task, staff are quick to assist them in refocusing their efforts. This approach is rooted in the school's commitment to inclusivity and understanding the diverse needs of its students.
Wider development opportunities for pupils are a significant strength of the school. Leaders recognize the importance of broadening pupils' experiences to enhance their life chances. Various initiatives, such as Enterprise Week, provide insights into different career paths, while extracurricular activities like choir and swimming galas nurture pupils' talents and interests.
The school's safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff and leaders. All staff understand their roles in safeguarding and are trained to follow appropriate procedures. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety, with recent initiatives addressing social media concerns.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. In a small number of foundation subjects, the curriculum refinement is ongoing, which may impact pupils' achievement. Leaders are tasked with ensuring that the curriculum across all subjects supports long-term retention of key content.
Overall, Archbishop Wake Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic success and personal development. The commitment to high standards, inclusivity, and a love of learning positions the school as a valuable educational institution within the community.
