Belchamp St Paul Church of England Primary School, located in the heart of Belchamp St Paul, Sudbury, Suffolk, has recently undergone an inspection on January 30 and 31, 2024. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, reflecting its commitment to providing quality education and a supportive environment for its pupils. The headteacher, Ana Da Piedade, leads the school, which is part of the Diocese of Chelmsford Vine Trust, overseen by CEO Emma Wigmore and a board of trustees chaired by Karen Bilner.
Pupils at Belchamp St Paul Primary School express pride in being part of a nurturing community that emphasizes family values. The school’s rural setting enhances the learning experience, allowing students to engage with nature and participate in outdoor activities, such as forest school. This connection to the environment fosters a sense of responsibility and encourages pupils to adopt healthy and active lifestyles. The school promotes resilience and courage, contributing to a positive attitude towards learning.
Behaviour among pupils is commendable, with students supporting one another in their academic efforts. They engage in constructive feedback, which aids their reflection and improvement. The school’s high expectations are well understood by the pupils, who recognize the importance of hard work. In the early years, children benefit from a hands-on approach to learning, guided by attentive and knowledgeable adults.
The school provides various opportunities for pupils to take on responsibilities, such as serving as school councillors, eco-members, and prefects. Older students enjoy mentoring younger peers, fostering a culture of respect, tolerance, and understanding of rules and laws. Safety is a priority, with pupils feeling secure in their environment and knowledgeable about online safety.
Belchamp St Paul Primary School has implemented a new curriculum that effectively prepares children for Year 1, with a strong focus on subjects like mathematics, phonics, and early reading. Teachers are clear about the learning objectives and regularly assess pupils’ understanding. However, some subjects are still in the process of development, and there is a need for clearer delineation of the knowledge and skills required for pupils to succeed. This inconsistency can lead to gaps in achievement in certain areas.
The school is proactive in identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). They receive appropriate assistance, ensuring they can learn alongside their peers. The expertise available through the trust enhances the quality of education for these pupils, who generally make strong progress.
Reading is a notable strength of the school, with pupils enjoying a diverse range of literature. Early years children are introduced to reading through phonics, enabling them to decode words and build confidence in their reading abilities. Teachers are well-trained to support reading development, quickly identifying those who may need additional help.
Pupils demonstrate good behaviour and engagement in lessons, with teachers effectively managing any loss of focus. This ensures minimal disruption to learning time. The school is also working to improve attendance, emphasizing its importance to pupils and their families.
The school prioritizes mental health and well-being, integrating values into the curriculum and providing enriching experiences through visitors and trips. Recent activities have included interactions with conservationists and opportunities for outdoor sports, which pupils have responded positively to.
Leadership at Belchamp St Paul Primary School is aware of its strengths and areas for improvement. There is a focus on reducing staff workload while enhancing educational quality. Professional development networks support staff in sharing knowledge and expertise.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with plans to refine its curriculum and assessment practices to ensure all subjects are well-defined and effectively taught. Overall, Belchamp St Paul Church of England Primary School is a supportive and effective educational institution, dedicated to the growth and development of its pupils.
