Townlands Church of England Primary School is recognized as a good school, demonstrating a welcoming and inclusive environment. The school promotes values such as honesty, respect, and friendship, which contribute to a positive atmosphere. Leaders maintain high expectations for both the achievement and behavior of all students. Pupils express happiness in their learning experiences and appreciate the support they receive from teachers and peers when they encounter difficulties. Classrooms are characterized by a calm and purposeful ambiance, where students are engaged and eager to participate in various activities.
The relationships between staff and students are notably positive, with pupils describing their peers and teachers as kind and supportive. They have a clear understanding of bullying and recognize that it is unacceptable, appreciating the prompt resolution of any issues by staff. During playtime, students enjoy the outdoor facilities and engage in play across different year groups. Older students take on roles as peer mediators, assisting younger pupils during breaks. The school community fosters pride among students, who value their contributions and enjoy a variety of extracurricular clubs, including sports, choir, and photography.
The school has established an ambitious curriculum that is well-planned and sequenced, ensuring that pupils acquire essential knowledge, skills, and vocabulary across most subjects. However, there is a need for further development in some foundation subjects to clarify the specific knowledge that students should learn. Teachers effectively present information, enabling pupils to retain knowledge over time, and they utilize various methods to assess understanding, which supports student achievement across the curriculum.
Reading is a priority at Townlands, with children beginning their reading journey in the Reception class. Teachers follow a structured approach to phonics, ensuring that pupils are matched with appropriate reading materials. Additional support is provided for those who fall behind, helping them to catch up. Older students continue to cultivate a love for reading, aided by a well-stocked library and frequent opportunities to read for pleasure. The curriculum includes carefully selected books that expose students to diverse genres and authors.
Students with special educational needs and disabilities are included in the ambitious curriculum, with effective support systems in place to assist their learning. Leaders collaborate with external agencies to provide additional resources when necessary, ensuring that these pupils can focus on their education. The Reception class is characterized by high expectations, with children engaging enthusiastically in well-planned activities that promote independent and collaborative work.
The school emphasizes personal, social, and emotional development, teaching pupils about healthy relationships and the importance of physical and mental well-being. Students learn about various cultures and religions, fostering respect and understanding of diversity. Leaders organize enriching experiences beyond the academic curriculum, enhancing students' learning.
Staff feel supported by school leaders, who provide time for professional development and promote a collaborative team environment. Governors effectively fulfill their roles, contributing to the overall success of the school. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety, and know they can approach trusted adults with concerns.
While the school excels in many areas, refining the curriculum in certain foundation subjects is necessary to ensure that all students build on their prior knowledge effectively. Overall, Townlands Church of England Primary School continues to provide a high-quality education, fostering a positive and supportive learning environment for all its pupils.
