Bowhill Primary School, located in Exeter, Devon, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 12-13, 2019. The school is characterized by a strong sense of pride among its pupils, who demonstrate diligence in their work. Their books reflect well-presented writing, diagrams, and maps, showcasing the high expectations set by teachers for concentration and effort across all lessons. The school environment is vibrant, with displays celebrating pupils' achievements across the curriculum.
The school is large and bustling, yet pupils navigate it independently and sensibly, adhering to established rules and routines. Parents and carers express confidence in the school's ability to keep their children safe, as evidenced by the positive feedback received through Ofsted's Parent View questionnaire. Teachers effectively manage pupil behavior, including those who may struggle, and pupils report trust in staff to address any instances of bullying.
In the early years, children receive excellent care and engage in stimulating indoor and outdoor learning activities. They demonstrate focus during tasks, such as measuring a beanstalk with a programmable toy. Staff maintain strong communication with parents regarding their children's learning progress.
Collaboration among leaders and teachers is a hallmark of Bowhill Primary School, fostering a supportive environment aimed at benefiting pupils. Teachers appreciate the new curriculum plans, which clarify what to teach and when, leading to improved retention of knowledge among pupils. For instance, in geography, prior learning about the river Exe enhances pupils' understanding of their new project on Egypt, allowing them to make connections between different geographical concepts.
While the school excels in many areas, leaders acknowledge the need for continued improvement in ensuring that all subjects maintain a high standard of learning. Teachers possess varying strengths across subjects, which can affect the consistency of instruction. The school promotes a love for reading, winning local challenges for the number of books read during holidays. Most pupils in the early years and key stage one are familiar with phonics, although some pupils require additional support to catch up in reading comprehension.
The school has clear plans to enhance writing standards, with pupils demonstrating accurate spelling and fluent handwriting. However, some children entering Year 1 still struggle with writing letters, which can hinder their progress. Leaders are aware that more able pupils should be challenged further, and there is a need for better utilization of teaching assistants to support all pupils effectively.
Bowhill Primary School provides a range of extracurricular activities, encouraging pupils to develop new skills and engage in physical activities. Pupils express enthusiasm for various sports and school trips, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience. The school fosters environmental awareness through initiatives led by pupils, such as the school council and eco-groups, promoting a sense of responsibility and community engagement.
Safeguarding measures at Bowhill Primary School are robust, with clear procedures in place to protect pupils at risk. Staff are well-trained and vigilant, ensuring that any concerns are addressed promptly. The school maintains thorough records of safety checks for all adults working with pupils.
In summary, Bowhill Primary School is a good school that prioritizes pupil achievement and well-being. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in reading comprehension and writing skills, the school demonstrates a commitment to fostering a positive learning environment and supporting all pupils in their educational journey.
