Coleham Primary School, located in Shrewsbury, Shropshire, has recently undergone an inspection on March 19 and 20, 2024, and has been rated as outstanding in all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The headteacher, Tom Larkham, leads a dedicated team within the 3 to 18 Trust, which is overseen by CEO David O’Toole and a board of trustees chaired by Gary Turner.
The school is characterized by a dynamic and engaging environment where pupils are encouraged to excel both academically and personally. The vision of providing an excellent education for every child is evident in the school’s daily operations. Staff maintain high expectations for all students, fostering a culture of commitment to learning that results in high-quality work and exceptional achievement.
Strong, nurturing relationships between staff and pupils are a hallmark of the school, creating a safe atmosphere where students feel comfortable expressing their concerns. This supportive environment is complemented by a comprehensive enrichment programme that includes educational trips, guest speakers, and a variety of after-school clubs, all designed to enhance the curriculum and stimulate pupils' interests and talents. Pupils are actively involved in shaping the school community through various leadership roles, and their opinions are valued by the school administration.
The curriculum is ambitious and extends beyond the basic requirements, with a focus on high-quality training for staff, enabling them to teach confidently across all subjects. Teachers assess pupils' prior knowledge and provide opportunities for real-life application of their learning, which deepens understanding. The early reading programme is particularly effective, with staff expertly guiding pupils to develop fluency in reading through well-matched books and timely support for those needing extra help. The school prioritizes fostering a love for reading through engaging initiatives, such as Buddy Reading Time and author visits.
The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive the support they need to thrive alongside their peers. The personal development curriculum emphasizes the importance of character education, teaching pupils about responsibility, resilience, and respect for others. The extensive outdoor facilities encourage active and inquisitive learning, while pupils engage in community service, enhancing their understanding of citizenship.
Behaviour expectations are clearly communicated and consistently enforced, with a focus on kindness, respect, and collaboration. The school has effective strategies in place to support attendance and maintain positive behaviour, resulting in a culture of respect and engagement among pupils.
In the early years, children benefit from a well-structured curriculum tailored to their developmental needs, fostering high levels of concentration and positive learning behaviours. The school’s leadership, including knowledgeable trustees and governors, provides robust support and challenge to ensure continuous improvement. Staff well-being is prioritized, contributing to a positive working environment.
The school enjoys strong engagement with the local community, and parents express overwhelming satisfaction with the education their children receive. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Coleham Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, providing a nurturing and stimulating environment that promotes the holistic development of every child.
