Tilstock C of E Primary and Nursery School, located in Whitchurch, Shropshire, was inspected on April 26 and 27, 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good across all areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This was the first inspection under section five of the Education Act 2005, as the school had not been previously inspected.
Pupils at Tilstock are proud of their school and enjoy learning and socializing with their peers. They feel safe and supported, with a strong belief that staff are always available to help with any issues. The school promotes a culture of respect, reflecting its Christian values, and pupils describe the community as respectful. The behavior of pupils is commendable; they are polite, well-mannered, and exhibit good behavior in lessons and throughout the school. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils express confidence that any issues will be addressed promptly. The school fosters an inclusive environment where everyone is welcomed.
The leadership team is ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. They have developed an engaging curriculum that encourages all pupils to achieve their best. Pupils benefit from various learning opportunities outside the classroom, including outdoor learning, clubs, and educational trips that enhance their understanding of the subjects studied.
Parents have expressed overwhelmingly positive views about the school, noting its role in supporting the social and emotional growth of their children alongside academic development. Parents of pupils with special educational needs report that their children receive excellent support.
The curriculum is broad and balanced, with clear plans outlining what pupils will learn in each subject. The sequencing of learning is carefully designed to build on prior knowledge, with key themes integrated throughout to deepen understanding. For instance, the theme of monarchy in history helps pupils connect past leadership decisions to contemporary life.
Reading instruction begins early, with staff trained to support pupils in their reading journey. Extra support is available for those at risk of falling behind, and pupils engage in daily reading practice with appropriately matched books. The school emphasizes fostering a love of reading, with staff regularly reading to pupils and encouraging discussions about books and authors.
Mathematics instruction has been revamped to ensure pupils acquire knowledge at the right pace, enabling them to apply what they learn effectively. Early years pupils engage in activities that promote counting and mathematical understanding through songs and games.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. Some teachers do not consistently consider pupils' prior knowledge when planning lessons, which can hinder progress. Additionally, some pupils exhibit a lack of pride in their work, leading to poorly presented and unfinished tasks. Leaders are focused on enhancing assessment practices to ensure that teaching is tailored to meet the needs of all pupils and to foster a culture of high expectations.
The school prioritizes the wider development of pupils, teaching them about various cultures and religions in the UK. Educational visits, such as a trip to Liverpool, help broaden pupils' perspectives beyond their local community. The school promotes fundamental British values, emphasizing fairness and equality.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff receiving regular training and updates. Leaders ensure that pre-employment checks are conducted for all staff, and pupils are educated on safety, including internet safety and recognizing safe relationships. Overall, Tilstock C of E Primary and Nursery School provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, with a commitment to continuous improvement.
