The Avenue Primary School and Children’s Centre, located in Warminster, Wiltshire, has received a positive inspection report, indicating overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on April 30 and May 1, 2024. The school is led by headteacher Donna McInnes and is part of the Acorn Education Trust, overseen by CEO Sara Edwards and a board of trustees chaired by David Middleton. The school serves a diverse population of 266 pupils aged three to eleven and is recognized for its inclusive environment where students feel proud to be part of the school community.
Pupils at The Avenue Primary School demonstrate resilience and a strong desire to achieve their best. The school’s values of respect, kindness, and honesty are evident in the behavior of both students and staff. The environment is described as warm, friendly, and purposeful, with pupils exhibiting politeness and good behavior. When necessary, adults provide guidance to help students make positive choices and learn from their mistakes. The school fosters a culture of high expectations, encouraging pupils to engage positively with their work, which prepares them well for future educational stages.
The quality of education is rated as good, with a curriculum that is ambitious and engaging. The school has effectively addressed previous weaknesses by focusing on curriculum improvement, resulting in a broad and balanced educational experience for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the consistent use of assessment to identify and address gaps in knowledge among some pupils.
Reading instruction is a strong point at The Avenue Primary School, with highly trained staff providing effective phonics teaching from the start of a child’s education. Early years provision is also commendable, laying a solid foundation for children’s social skills and academic knowledge. The school emphasizes the importance of reading, with a carefully curated selection of books that broaden pupils’ literary experiences and foster a love for reading.
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs for sports, music, and arts, which contribute to the personal development of pupils. Opportunities for leadership and responsibility are abundant, with roles such as student leaders and eco-warriors allowing pupils to engage actively in their school community. Parents express satisfaction with the quality of education and care their children receive, noting the supportive environment that keeps students happy and safe.
While the school has made significant strides in its educational offerings, it recognizes the need to enhance the effectiveness of assessments to ensure all pupils’ knowledge gaps are addressed. The newly established academy council has yet to demonstrate its impact, and the trust is committed to ensuring that it fulfills its role effectively in supporting the school’s strategic oversight.
Safeguarding measures are in place and deemed effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. The school’s leadership is proactive in seeking continuous improvement, with trust leaders providing valuable support and holding school leaders accountable for educational quality. Overall, The Avenue Primary School is well-regarded for its commitment to fostering a positive learning environment and supporting the holistic development of its pupils.