Hutton Church of England Primary School, located in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 9 and 10, 2022. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils enjoy attending and feel safe and cared for. Staff members greet students and their parents at the gate, addressing any concerns promptly, which allows pupils to focus on their learning. The school provides ample space for both learning and play, promoting kindness and respect among students. Positive behavior is encouraged through a points system, and instances of bullying are rare, with staff addressing any issues swiftly.
Pupils demonstrate enthusiasm for learning and are eager to follow instructions. They exhibit a strong understanding of their subjects, as evidenced by Year 3 students discussing the legacies of the Romans in Britain. The school maintains high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This commitment to high standards ensures that learning is not disrupted by poor behavior.
The school excels in behavior management, with pupils from Reception to Year 6 responding positively to staff. Leaders have made significant improvements in curriculum planning across most subjects, with subject leaders passionate about their areas. Collaborative efforts among staff ensure that the curriculum meets the diverse needs of all pupils. Teachers adapt lessons effectively, allowing most pupils with special educational needs to engage fully with the curriculum. Individual plans are created for those who require additional support, ensuring their academic and emotional needs are met.
Reading is prioritized at Hutton Church of England Primary School, with a structured phonics program that is consistently delivered. Early years pupils learn phonics effectively, and staff regularly assess progress, providing support to those who may fall behind. The reading materials are aligned with the phonics taught, facilitating pupils' reading development. In mathematics, teachers clearly outline what to teach and when, ensuring pupils are prepared for each step of their learning journey.
While the quality of learning in some subjects is strong, there is variability in others. For instance, history lessons effectively utilize recurring themes to help pupils make connections, while other subjects may not yet have fully developed curricula. Teachers employ various assessment methods to gauge pupils' understanding and adapt their teaching accordingly.
The school places great importance on pupils' personal development, emphasizing respect for others regardless of their background. A pledge outlines diverse experiences for pupils before they leave, including activities such as tobogganing and theatre trips. Engagement in sports and musical events with local schools, along with charity fundraising, fosters a sense of community and awareness of others' needs. Links with a school in Africa enhance pupils' understanding of global challenges.
Staff at Hutton Church of England Primary School express pride in their work and feel well-supported by leadership. The governing body and multi-academy trust leaders are actively involved in the school's operations, holding senior leaders accountable. Safeguarding measures are effective, with well-trained staff ensuring pupils' safety and well-being. The school collaborates with local agencies to provide necessary support for at-risk pupils.
To further improve, the school needs to enhance the curriculum in certain subjects to better support pupils in making connections and building on their knowledge. Leaders should ensure that the curriculum clearly identifies key concepts for each subject, facilitating a more cohesive learning experience for all pupils.
