Shaldon Primary School, located in Devon, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy in 2016. The inspection, conducted on 8 and 9 October 2024, resulted in an outstanding rating across all key areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The headteacher, Jennifer Stewart, leads a dedicated team within The Academies for Character and Excellence trust, which is overseen by CEO Cheryl Weyman and a board of trustees chaired by Roger Willoughby.
The school fosters an environment where pupils excel, guided by its core values of citizenship, leadership, explorers, expression, and flourishing. These values are integrated into every aspect of school life, promoting positive attitudes towards learning. Pupils are described as happy and well-supported, with strong relationships between staff and students. Older pupils take on mentorship roles, assisting younger students in developing their reading skills, which enhances the sense of community within the school.
Shaldon Primary School's ambitious curriculum is fully embedded across all year groups, reflecting the high expectations set by school leaders. Pupils engage in challenging learning experiences and collaborate effectively to solve problems, resulting in strong academic achievements and readiness for future educational stages. The school places a strong emphasis on character development, encouraging pupils to participate in local and international charity work, which fosters a sense of responsibility and active citizenship.
The early years provision is particularly noteworthy, with a thoughtfully designed environment that captivates children's imaginations. Activities are tailored to promote communication and language skills, and children demonstrate a remarkable understanding of perseverance and teamwork. The school identifies special educational needs early and provides effective support, ensuring that all pupils, including those with SEND, learn exceptionally well.
Reading is prioritized from the outset, with a structured phonics program that includes regular assessments to identify and support pupils at risk of falling behind. The curriculum is designed to build knowledge and skills progressively, with high expectations for pupil performance. In subjects like art, pupils develop their abilities in shading and shadowing, enhancing their confidence and artistic skills.
Pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles, such as head boy and head girl, house captains, and well-being leaders, which instills a sense of pride and responsibility. The school council facilitates discussions on topical issues, promoting critical thinking and awareness of diverse perspectives. Pupils also gain a comprehensive understanding of healthy lifestyles, British values, and various religions, fostering respect for differences and broadening their worldview.
The school environment is calm and orderly, with high behavioural expectations established from the early years. Pupils exhibit exceptional behaviour and attendance rates are high, with the school actively supporting families to ensure consistent attendance. Governance is effective, with leaders considering staff workload and well-being in decision-making processes. The trustees and local governing body possess a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, ensuring the best outcomes for all pupils.
Overall, Shaldon Primary School provides an exceptional educational experience, characterized by a strong commitment to academic excellence, character development, and community engagement. The school's leadership is dedicated to maintaining high standards and continuously improving the educational provision for all pupils.
