St. Peter's CE Primary Academy, located in Salisbury, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness as a good school following its inspection in November 2022. The school, which opened in 2018, has established a strong reputation within the community, driven by high expectations set by trust leaders and a clear vision for the school's role in the locality. The headteacher plays a crucial role in fostering this vision, ensuring that both staff and pupils embody the school's motto of striving beyond limits.
Pupils at St. Peter's take pride in their school environment, demonstrating respectful behavior and a commitment to their learning. Attendance rates are high, reflecting students' enjoyment of their educational experience. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, staff address them promptly and effectively. The school has navigated challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, with resilience and purpose, earning the respect of parents who feel a collaborative partnership with the school enhances their children's opportunities.
The curriculum at St. Peter's is ambitious and comprehensive, covering a wide range of subjects from Reception to Year 6. Leaders regularly reflect on the curriculum's effectiveness, ensuring that it meets the needs of pupils and deepens their learning over time. Assessment practices are utilized wisely, allowing teachers to monitor pupil progress without overwhelming staff. Reading is prioritized, with a well-resourced library at the heart of the school. Pupils engage in reading during breaks and lessons, supported by a phonics scheme that has been effectively implemented. This focus on reading helps to broaden pupils' vocabulary and cultural understanding.
Teachers are skilled in engaging pupils, particularly those who speak English as an additional language, ensuring that all students can articulate their learning and views. The school recognizes the importance of developing writing skills from an early age, providing targeted support to improve pencil grip and writing accuracy. However, some older pupils struggle with spelling and punctuation, indicating a need for more consistent application of these skills across the curriculum.
St. Peter's is attentive to the needs of disadvantaged pupils, many of whom have special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders track their progress closely and provide swift support when challenges arise, enabling these pupils to thrive and make significant improvements. The school offers a range of extracurricular activities that enrich pupils' personal development, ensuring that all students, including those with additional needs, have equal opportunities to participate.
The personal, social, health, and economic education curriculum prepares pupils to be responsible citizens, teaching them about safety, consent, and respect for diversity. While pupils demonstrate compassion and tolerance, their understanding of protected characteristics requires further development.
Safeguarding measures at St. Peter's are effective, with staff receiving regular training to identify and report concerns. Recruitment processes are thorough, ensuring a safe environment for pupils. The school is committed to raising awareness about safeguarding risks, and pupils are informed about how to stay safe.
To improve, the school should focus on enhancing the consistency of writing accuracy across the curriculum and further developing pupils' understanding of protected characteristics. Overall, St. Peter's CE Primary Academy is a school that fosters a positive learning environment, supports its pupils effectively, and is well-regarded within its community.
