Antony Church of England School, located in Antony, Torpoint, Cornwall, underwent an inspection on 28 and 29 September 2021. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, reflecting significant improvements since the previous inspection, which had rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils express a strong sense of belonging at the school, with many describing it as a second home. The small staff team fosters individual relationships with pupils, contributing to a safe and nurturing environment. High expectations from staff encourage pupils to become confident learners, and the curriculum is designed to be engaging and stimulating. For instance, in a history lesson, pupils displayed eagerness to learn about historical events, indicating that lessons are well-planned and effectively delivered.
Behavior in the school is commendable, with pupils moving around calmly and orderly. They report a lack of bullying incidents and express confidence in staff's ability to address any issues that may arise. Parents and carers hold positive views about the school, often referring to it as a small school with a big heart, which resonates with the sentiments of pupils and their families.
The head of school is highly regarded by staff, pupils, and parents alike. There is a shared ambition among staff to provide the best possible education for every pupil. The school has established clear plans outlining what pupils need to learn in each subject, which supports a well-structured curriculum that builds on prior knowledge and develops new skills. Teachers are attentive to pupils' learning needs and adapt their teaching accordingly.
Collaboration with other schools in the multi-academy trust has proven beneficial, especially with the arrival of new teachers. This support has helped maintain the quality of education during a period of transition. The early years provision is also strong, with a well-organized Reception area that offers a rich learning environment. Experienced staff ensure that children settle in quickly and engage in meaningful learning experiences.
Reading is prioritized at Antony Church of England School, with staff trained to teach phonics effectively. Teachers monitor pupils' understanding and provide immediate support to those who struggle. Pupils are encouraged to read at home, and their progress is tracked diligently. The curriculum is designed to cater to the diverse needs of pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. However, there are instances where support plans for these pupils could be more specific to enhance their learning experiences.
Pupils demonstrate positive behavior in lessons, collaborating well with peers and following instructions promptly. They show respect for one another and are eager to improve their work. The school emphasizes the importance of personal development, with pupils learning to care for one another and recognizing the value of understanding different cultures and lifestyles. Residential trips organized by the school provide opportunities for pupils to develop resilience and broaden their horizons.
Staff feel supported by the head of school, who demonstrates genuine care for their well-being. This supportive environment contributes to a positive workplace culture, with no concerns regarding excessive workload. The leadership team is appreciated by the trust, and there are established procedures to hold the head of school accountable for ensuring that pupils achieve their potential.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with all staff trained to identify and support pupils at risk. Leaders respond promptly to any concerns raised by staff, and parents feel confident that their children are safe in school. Governors actively monitor safeguarding practices to ensure consistency and effectiveness.
To further improve, the school should refine the support plans for pupils with special educational needs to ensure that they receive tailored assistance that meets their individual needs. Overall, Antony Church of England School has made commendable progress, providing a nurturing and effective educational environment for its pupils.
