Whaplode Church of England Primary School, located in Spalding, Lincolnshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 17 and 18, 2022. The pupils express pride in their school and appreciate the support they receive from staff, who are described as helpful and supportive. Students take on various roles within the school, such as pupil principals and play leaders, and they enjoy participating in extracurricular activities like chess club and cross-country. The school is fortunate to have its own swimming pool, which students actively help to maintain through fundraising efforts.
The behavior of pupils is positive, with a clear understanding of the school's behavior policy. They value the rewards system in place, which includes recognition such as star of the week and golden tickets. The school environment is described as welcoming and inclusive, with pupils acknowledging the importance of diversity and the absence of bullying.
In terms of academic performance, the school excels in teaching reading, with a phonics program that effectively engages students. Teachers ensure that lessons are enjoyable and that reading materials are appropriately matched to students' abilities, fostering a love for reading. However, there is a need for improvement in the sequencing of the reading curriculum beyond phonics, as it has not yet been fully developed to clarify what students should learn throughout the school year. School leaders are actively working to address this issue.
The overall curriculum is well-planned and sequenced across all subjects, allowing for cumulative learning over time. However, inconsistencies in implementation have been noted, with some lessons not aligning closely with the intended curriculum. This can lead to gaps in knowledge for some pupils. The early years curriculum is effectively structured, ensuring that children achieve key learning milestones.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, with the special educational needs coordinator ensuring that their needs are met through well-defined plans. The personal development of pupils is also prioritized, with a comprehensive curriculum for personal, social, and health education in place. Pupils demonstrate an understanding of British values and their significance.
Senior leaders are ambitious for all pupils and have cultivated a motivated team committed to the school's values. However, some parents have expressed concerns regarding aspects of the school's provision, including bullying and support for pupils with special educational needs. These concerns do not align with the findings of the inspection, which indicated that the school is effectively addressing these issues.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are robust, with staff trained to recognize signs that pupils may need help. Pupils are aware of whom to approach for support and understand how to stay safe in various contexts.
To enhance the quality of education, the school must ensure that the reading curriculum is fully sequenced and that all lessons align closely with the curriculum's intent. Overall, Whaplode Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth.
