Padbury Church of England School, located in Buckinghamshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 26, 2022. The school is characterized by a friendly and welcoming environment where leaders prioritize the well-being of pupils and their families. The core values of love, courage, respect, hope, fellowship, and trust are deeply embedded in the school's culture, fostering an atmosphere where pupils feel happy, safe, and valued. Parents express high levels of satisfaction, with all respondents to the Ofsted Parent View survey recommending the school.
The leadership team maintains high expectations for all pupils, which contributes to their overall success and achievement. Staff members actively encourage pupils to develop responsibility, care for others, and ambition. Initiatives like the 'fill my bucket' program promote positive self-regard and encourage pupils to celebrate each other's successes. The behavior of pupils is consistently good, with a strong desire to behave well and treat one another with respect. The school effectively addresses any rare incidents of bullying, ensuring a supportive environment for all.
The curriculum at Padbury Church of England School is broad and ambitious, catering for the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders have identified essential knowledge and skills necessary for pupils to reach their educational goals. In subjects like English and mathematics, teachers regularly assess pupils' understanding and adapt their teaching to build on prior knowledge. However, there is recognition that the assessment methods in other subjects need further development to ensure that learning is tailored to pupils' needs.
Reading is a priority at the school, with children in Reception Year learning to read effectively through well-structured phonics instruction. Staff are well-trained, and assessments are conducted to identify pupils who may need additional support. The enthusiasm for reading is evident, as pupils engage with a diverse range of texts that inspire their learning.
Mathematics is taught effectively, with teachers demonstrating strong subject knowledge and employing effective teaching strategies. Leaders have addressed gaps in knowledge resulting from the pandemic, ensuring that pupils can build their understanding progressively. Pupils enjoy mathematics and demonstrate enthusiasm for the subject.
The school has a growing number of pupils with special educational needs, and leaders are adept at identifying and meeting their needs. Support is provided to help these pupils develop their skills and confidence across the curriculum. Pupils are engaged learners who collaborate well, share ideas, and contribute actively in lessons. The school environment is calm and orderly, with a strong emphasis on valuing learning.
The school excels in supporting pupils' broader development, offering numerous opportunities that enhance their spiritual, moral, social, and cultural growth. Pupils demonstrate empathy and awareness of the world around them, preparing them for future educational steps and life beyond school. The partnership between the trust and governors provides effective oversight and support for school leaders, contributing to a positive working atmosphere where staff feel valued and supported.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with regular training for staff and prompt action taken to address any concerns. Leaders ensure that safeguarding practices are continuously reviewed and adapted to meet the needs of pupils. Overall, Padbury Church of England School is committed to providing a high-quality education and nurturing environment for all its pupils, with clear areas identified for further improvement in curriculum assessment practices.
