High Bickington Church of England Primary Academy, located in Devon, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on 20 and 21 October 2021. The school is characterized by strong Christian values that guide daily activities and interactions among pupils. Students are encouraged to contribute positively to their school and community, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility. The school environment is safe, and attendance rates are high, with parents expressing satisfaction with the care and support their children receive.
The leadership team is committed to ensuring that all pupils achieve their potential. The curriculum is ambitious and designed to inspire students, which has resulted in positive attitudes towards learning across all year groups. Pupils actively participate in school life, taking on roles such as school councillors and play leaders, which helps them develop a sense of responsibility and respect for others. The relationships between pupils and teachers are characterized by warmth and respect, contributing to a collaborative learning atmosphere. The school effectively implements its behavior management system, resulting in minimal incidents of poor behavior and rare occurrences of bullying.
The school excels in its approach to teaching reading, with a structured curriculum that emphasizes phonics and comprehension. Early years and key stage one pupils engage with reading materials that align with their learning levels, and there is a strong emphasis on daily reading both at home and in school. Support is readily available for pupils who require additional help, ensuring that all students can develop their reading skills effectively.
In addition to reading, the school has made significant strides in improving the curriculum across various subjects, particularly in mathematics and music. Teachers are well-trained and possess strong subject knowledge, enabling them to challenge pupils effectively and provide constructive feedback. However, there are some inconsistencies in the curriculum quality across a few subjects, leading to gaps in pupils' knowledge that need to be addressed. The governing body has not fully recognized these issues, indicating a need for greater oversight in ensuring curriculum improvements.
The school also prioritizes the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, providing an ambitious curriculum tailored to their requirements. Staff are quick to identify these pupils' needs and offer appropriate support, resulting in positive outcomes for most students.
While the personal, social, and health education curriculum is well-implemented in many areas, there are some weaknesses, particularly in educating pupils about healthy lifestyles. Leaders are encouraged to enhance this aspect of the curriculum to ensure a comprehensive educational experience.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs of potential harm and to report concerns promptly. The school environment is well-organized and secure, contributing to the overall safety of pupils.
In summary, High Bickington Church of England Primary Academy demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education rooted in Christian values. The leadership team is dedicated to continuous improvement, although there are areas within the curriculum that require further attention. The school has established a positive learning environment where pupils feel safe and valued, and it is well-positioned to build on its successes moving forward.
