Ashill Community Primary School

Ashill Community Primary School, located in Ilminster, Somerset, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection took place on June 25 and 26, 2024, and the overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good. The quality of education, leadership and management, and early years provision were also rated as good, while behaviour and attitudes were deemed outstanding. The school is part of the Academies for Character and Excellence trust, which provides additional support and oversight.

The headteacher, Emma Johns, has been in her role since June 2024, following a four-month interim period. The school serves a small community, with 46 pupils enrolled, and operates two mixed-age classes along with a pre-school. The trust is led by CEO Cheryl Weyman and overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Roger Willoughby. The school has not been previously inspected under the current framework due to its exemption from routine inspections until November 2020.

Pupils at Ashill Community Primary School enjoy a positive and inclusive environment. They are encouraged to attend regularly, and parents describe the school as welcoming and nurturing. Strong relationships among staff and pupils foster a culture of kindness and respect. From an early age, children are taught to recognize and manage their feelings, contributing to a safe and supportive atmosphere. The exemplary conduct of pupils reflects the school's commitment to their well-being.

The curriculum is designed to promote curiosity, independence, and resilience among learners. While pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards their education, there are identified gaps in their knowledge, particularly in science and other areas of the wider curriculum. The school is actively working to address these gaps to meet the higher expectations of the new curriculum. Pupils participate in various extracurricular activities, including after-school clubs, educational visits, and events like the ACE Olympics, which help to nurture their diverse talents and interests.

The school has high aspirations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. It effectively identifies and meets the needs of these pupils through appropriate adaptations and individual learning plans. The curriculum is inclusive, ensuring that all pupils have access to the same learning opportunities. The school promotes a love of reading through the sharing of high-quality books and provides additional support for those who struggle with reading, helping them to catch up quickly.

The curriculum is ambitious and aims to build knowledge over time. It clearly outlines the essential knowledge, skills, and vocabulary that pupils should retain. Staff receive training to ensure effective delivery of the curriculum, which has already led to improvements in pupil outcomes in reading, writing, and mathematics. However, gaps in knowledge remain in some subjects, which can hinder pupils' ability to connect concepts and learn new material.

Pupils are educated about maintaining healthy bodies and minds, with early years education incorporating lessons on healthy eating. The school also addresses online safety through its computing and personal, social, health, and economic education curriculums. While pupils learn to respect different cultures and faiths, their understanding of fundamental British values and diverse beliefs is still developing. The school plans to enhance this aspect of education through specific events aimed at broadening pupils' knowledge of modern British life.

The school values parental involvement in education and collaborates with parents and external professionals to improve attendance when necessary. The trust is also working to help parents understand the new curriculum. Trustees share the leaders' ambition for pupils and have a solid understanding of the school's strengths and areas for development. They regularly monitor teaching and learning to ensure that pupils receive a quality education.

The safeguarding arrangements at Ashill Community Primary School are effective, ensuring that pupils' welfare is prioritized. However, the school must continue to address the gaps in pupils' knowledge across various subjects and enhance their understanding of British values and diversity to better prepare them for life in modern Britain. Overall, the school demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils.