Acorns Primary School, located in Long Compton, Shipston-on-Stour, Warwickshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 2, 2022. The school is characterized by a positive and nurturing environment where students are eager to learn. The leadership team sets high expectations and is committed to fostering an ambitious atmosphere for student achievement. Pupils express pride in their school, appreciating the close-knit community where everyone knows each other. The school is well-integrated into the local community, and parents and carers feel involved and valued, often praising the staff for their dedication to student support.
The school’s curriculum is designed to be ambitious and comprehensive, ensuring that all children receive a well-rounded education. Teachers effectively deliver the curriculum in engaging ways that motivate students and help them retain knowledge across various subjects. This approach prepares pupils well for their transition to secondary education. Students in key stage two particularly enjoy learning Spanish, highlighting the diverse offerings of the curriculum. The assessment practices in place allow teachers to monitor student progress effectively, enabling them to provide additional support when necessary.
Acorns Primary School excels in fostering positive behavior among its students. Pupils understand the concept of bullying and feel confident that any issues will be addressed promptly by adults. When behavioral challenges arise, teachers guide students in understanding and correcting their actions, promoting a culture of accountability and respect. The school environment is safe, and both students and staff feel secure, contributing to a conducive learning atmosphere.
The early years provision, including Nursery and Reception, is particularly strong. Children are welcomed into a stimulating learning environment where they quickly adapt to school routines. The emphasis on reading is evident, with daily phonics lessons helping children develop their reading skills from an early age. Most pupils become confident readers before reaching key stage two, although there are instances where the books provided do not always align with the sounds they have learned, which can hinder fluency development.
Mathematics instruction is also effective, with a curriculum that allows for regular practice and reinforcement of key concepts. Pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning and collaborate well with one another. The school community is described as a large family, with students displaying politeness and enthusiasm for their education. Disruptions in lessons are rare, allowing for a focused learning environment.
Despite being a small school, Acorns Primary offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that enrich the student experience. Pupils participate in charity events, choir performances, and local literary festivals. The school’s commitment to providing diverse experiences is encapsulated in its promise of “11 before 11,” ensuring that students have memorable opportunities before moving on to secondary school.
Inclusivity is a core value at Acorns Primary, with staff dedicated to supporting all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school’s leadership is focused on continuous improvement, with a clear understanding of its strengths and areas for development. Staff workload is considered carefully, and this is appreciated by the teaching team.
The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with a strong emphasis on the welfare of all students. Staff are well-trained to recognize and respond to safeguarding concerns, ensuring a safe environment for learning. Pupils are educated on how to stay safe both in real life and online, reinforcing the school’s commitment to their well-being.
While Acorns Primary School has many strengths, there is a need for improvement in ensuring that reading assessments are utilized more effectively. This will help guarantee that the books provided to younger pupils align with their phonetic knowledge, allowing them to develop reading fluency more rapidly. Overall, Acorns Primary School continues to provide a high-quality education, fostering a love of learning and a supportive community for its pupils.
