St Michael’s Church of England Primary School, located in Bournemouth, Dorset, has recently undergone an inspection, receiving a commendable rating of good across all key areas including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school, which is part of the St Michael’s Church of England Primary School Academy Trust, is led by headteacher Anthony Evans and overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Kathryn May.
The school is characterized by its commitment to diversity, with pupils speaking 57 different languages. This multicultural environment fosters a sense of belonging among students, particularly those who join mid-year and may not speak English. Tailored support is provided through specialized staff in the ‘lingua lab’ and peer assistance from ‘young interpreters’, ensuring that all pupils feel integrated and valued.
Academically, pupils thrive due to the high levels of care and nurturing provided by the staff. The curriculum has been recently revised to enhance learning across subjects, allowing pupils to build a strong foundation for their education. The school maintains high expectations for behaviour, which pupils consistently meet, demonstrating respect and kindness in their interactions. This ethos is encapsulated in what is referred to as ‘The St. Michael’s Way’, guiding students in their conduct both in and out of the classroom.
Community involvement is a significant aspect of school life, with pupils actively participating in initiatives such as serving food at ‘midweek meals’ and engaging in cultural events. Parents and carers have expressed appreciation for the school’s dedication to fostering personal growth among students.
The curriculum is ambitious and broad, with a focus on essential knowledge and skills. The introduction of ‘key learning points’ helps teachers identify what pupils need to learn and when, facilitating a coherent progression in their education. Reading is prioritized, with a carefully curated selection of high-quality books that enrich vocabulary and understanding of diverse perspectives. By the end of their time at the school, pupils emerge as confident readers, equipped with a strong grasp of phonics and comprehension skills.
In the early years, children quickly learn new sounds and develop independence through well-structured activities. However, there is a need for greater consistency in how staff support pupils’ oracy skills, as some interactions may not fully extend students’ spoken language development.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring their needs are identified early and addressed with tailored interventions. The learning environment is generally free from disruption, with dedicated spaces like the ‘beach hut’ and ‘rainbow room’ providing support for pupils to discuss concerns and manage their behaviour.
Beyond academics, the school offers a variety of extracurricular clubs and leadership opportunities, promoting a sense of responsibility and community among pupils. Governors work collaboratively with the school, regularly assessing the impact of its initiatives and fostering a culture of teamwork.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all staff consistently check pupils’ understanding of foundational skills before progressing to more complex tasks. Additionally, enhancing the quality of interactions between staff and pupils will further support language development.
Overall, St Michael’s Church of England Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a nurturing and inclusive educational experience, with a focus on academic excellence and personal development.