Ernesettle Community School in Plymouth, Devon, has been recognized for its outstanding overall effectiveness following an inspection conducted on November 19-20, 2019. The school has demonstrated excellence across various domains, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The inspection revealed that leaders, staff, and governors are dedicated to achieving high standards and fostering an environment where all pupils can thrive, regardless of their starting points. This commitment is reflected in the exceptional progress made by pupils throughout their time at the school, with many achieving remarkable academic success by the time they transition to secondary education.
Pupils express pride in their school, highlighting the supportive and positive atmosphere cultivated by the staff. The school emphasizes the importance of preparing pupils to be responsible citizens in modern Britain, with initiatives that encourage community engagement, such as supporting local care homes. Parents and carers have overwhelmingly positive views of the school, often describing it as amazing. The behavior of pupils is exemplary, with a strong culture of learning that discourages poor behavior and bullying. Pupils feel confident that any issues would be addressed promptly and effectively.
The quality of education at Ernesettle Community School is exceptional, with a curriculum designed to meet the needs of all pupils. Many children enter the school with skills below the expected level for their age, yet they make significant progress due to the tailored support provided by teachers. The curriculum is engaging and allows pupils to connect knowledge across subjects, fostering a deeper understanding of the material. For instance, Year 2 pupils can compare different types of homes, while Year 6 pupils engage in discussions about global issues, drawing on their experiences with a partner school in Ghana.
Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with early identification of pupils who may require additional support. The school implements effective strategies to ensure that all children develop strong reading skills, which are essential for their overall academic success. Teachers are skilled in organizing lessons and activities that cater to the diverse needs of their pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as disadvantaged pupils, who also achieve well.
The staff at Ernesettle Community School are highly qualified, with many holding leadership roles in education. They benefit from ongoing professional development opportunities, which contribute to a positive work environment and high staff morale. The governing body is committed to supporting the school in its mission to provide the best possible education for its pupils, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the challenges faced by the school and the community it serves.
The early years provision is characterized by a vibrant and stimulating environment where children are encouraged to explore and develop essential skills. Staff are attentive and proactive in ensuring that children are well-prepared for their transition to Year 1. The curriculum is enriched by visitors who share their cultural knowledge, helping children from diverse backgrounds feel welcomed and supported.
Safeguarding measures at the school are robust, with regular training for staff to identify and respond to potential risks. Pupils are educated on how to stay safe, both in person and online, and they express confidence in the support provided by staff. Overall, Ernesettle Community School exemplifies a commitment to excellence in education, fostering a nurturing and effective learning environment for all its pupils.
