Dunton Bassett Primary School, located in Leicestershire, has received a positive inspection report, highlighting its overall effectiveness as good. The school is part of the Inspiring Primaries Academy Trust, with Lee Evans serving as the executive principal. The inspection took place on July 3 and 4, 2024, and the school has maintained its good rating since the previous inspection in January 2023.
Pupils at Dunton Bassett Primary School express pride in their friendly environment and appreciate the caring staff dedicated to their well-being. The school fosters a sense of belonging within the village community, where pupils feel valued and respected. Behaviour among students is commendable, with a strong desire to excel and embody the school’s values of resilience and respect. The school implements a reward system, allowing pupils to earn marbles for their efforts, which contributes to a positive atmosphere. Instances of bullying are reported to be rare, and pupils feel safe, knowing that staff are quick to address any issues.
The curriculum at Dunton Bassett is ambitious and well-structured, ensuring that pupils acquire essential knowledge across various subjects. Staff training has been effective, enhancing teachers' subject knowledge and their ability to assess pupil learning. As a result, pupils are making significant progress in their education. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all staff possess a deep understanding of the curriculum to address any gaps in pupils' learning from previous years. While the mathematics curriculum is well-sequenced and effectively taught, published outcomes do not fully reflect the quality of education provided.
The school prioritizes reading from the early years, with a strong emphasis on developing pupils' reading skills. Regular assessments allow staff to monitor progress and provide additional support when needed. The selection of reading materials has been reviewed to ensure relevance to the curriculum, helping pupils make connections across subjects. This focus on reading contributes to pupils becoming confident readers who can articulate their thoughts about the texts they engage with.
In the early years, children benefit from well-established routines and engaging activities that promote independence and prepare them for future learning. The school places a high priority on pupils' well-being, teaching them about healthy choices and fostering an understanding of diverse families and relationships. The environment is calm and conducive to learning, with minimal disruptions and a high level of attendance.
Staff at Dunton Bassett Primary School are proud to be part of the institution and feel fairly treated. They appreciate the collaborative nature of the trust and the support provided for their well-being, especially during times of change. The school has a clear vision for providing the best education for every child, and this commitment is evident in the positive feedback from parents and carers.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas identified for improvement. Some teachers need to enhance their subject knowledge to better identify and address gaps in pupils' learning. Additionally, there are occasions when tasks do not sufficiently challenge pupils to deepen their understanding. Addressing these areas will further enhance the quality of education at Dunton Bassett Primary School, ensuring that all pupils have the opportunity to achieve their full potential. The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, contributing to a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.
