Orchard Primary School, located in Pershore, Worcestershire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 11 and 12, 2022. The school emphasizes values such as aspiration, collaboration, respect, responsibility, and kindness, which are reflected in the positive relationships between staff and pupils. Students report feeling safe and supported, contributing to a pleasant school atmosphere. Since its transition from a first school to a primary school in 2019, the school has effectively designed a curriculum that prepares pupils for secondary education, ensuring a structured approach to learning from Reception through Year 6.
Teachers create engaging lessons that facilitate good progress, and pupils demonstrate commendable behavior both in lessons and during breaks. The school community has maintained its caring environment despite its growth in size. Pupils express satisfaction with their school experience, noting that bullying is not a concern, and they trust that staff would address any issues promptly.
The curriculum covers all national subjects for key stages one and two, with a strong focus on literacy and numeracy in the Reception class. The school aims to ensure that all pupils are well-prepared for their subsequent educational stages. Teachers employ effective lesson planning strategies that help pupils retain knowledge, utilizing imaginative activities in subjects like history and problem-solving in mathematics. This approach fosters enthusiasm and good behavior among students, leading to significant academic progress.
Since joining a multi-academy trust, the school has collaborated with other institutions to enhance assessment systems for tracking pupil progress, particularly in English, mathematics, and science. However, the development of assessment systems in other subjects has been delayed due to the impact of COVID-19. School leaders are aware of the need to catch up and are actively working on improving these systems to better identify and address gaps in knowledge.
Phonics instruction begins in Reception, with teachers quickly identifying students who struggle with reading and providing additional support. By Year 3, all pupils are expected to be fluent readers, and the school prioritizes fostering a love for reading through daily story sessions and encouraging home reading.
Orchard Primary School offers numerous opportunities for pupils to develop into well-rounded individuals, including participation in councils, music lessons, and outdoor residential trips. The school promotes respect for diverse cultures and beliefs, as evidenced by activities during Black History Month and lessons on different faiths.
The leadership team is dedicated to maintaining an inclusive ethos and ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive appropriate support. Staff collaboration is strong, with leaders striving to manage workloads effectively and valuing staff input.
The school benefits from its association with the multi-academy trust, which fosters collaboration and mutual support among schools. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff receiving regular training and being vigilant in identifying and reporting concerns. The school teaches pupils about managing risks in daily life, including internet safety.
While the school excels in many areas, it recognizes the need to enhance assessment practices in foundation subjects to ensure that all pupils' learning needs are effectively met. Overall, Orchard Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational environment for its students.
