Saint Sebastian’s Church of England Primary School in Wokingham, Berkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 13 October 2021. The school prides itself on its inclusive and compassionate environment, which is deeply rooted in its Christian ethos. Pupils, parents, and staff express pride in the school community, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere that fosters a sense of belonging. The smaller size of the school contributes to a close-knit community where everyone knows each other, enhancing the safety and security felt by the pupils.
Pupils are enthusiastic about their learning and trust their teachers to support them in meeting high expectations. They feel comfortable sharing any concerns with adults, knowing they will be listened to. The school encourages pupils to take on various roles and responsibilities, with older students acting as mentors to younger ones, fostering a supportive environment. The school’s commitment to diversity is evident, as pupils enjoy learning about the different backgrounds and experiences of their classmates.
The leadership team is dedicated to ensuring that every pupil reaches their full potential. They have developed a curriculum tailored to meet the diverse needs of learners, including those with special educational needs and those who are not yet fluent in English. Staff are knowledgeable and provide timely support to help all pupils succeed. The school has made significant strides in promoting a love of reading, with pupils engaging with a variety of challenging texts that reflect the school's diversity. A structured phonics program ensures that children develop strong reading skills from an early age, with most becoming confident readers by the end of key stage two.
While the curriculum has been redeveloped in many areas, including mathematics and history, there is still work to be done in subjects like design and technology and computing. Leaders are aware of the need to enhance these areas to ensure that all subjects are equally well planned and sequenced. Assessment practices in foundation subjects also require improvement to help teachers gauge pupils' understanding and knowledge retention effectively.
Lessons at the school are engaging and purposeful, with clear rules and routines that pupils follow. The school promotes a positive outdoor environment where pupils take part in various activities during playtime. Daily collective worship sessions provide opportunities for pupils to reflect on important values, such as thankfulness, and to discuss topical issues related to equality.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, with staff trained to recognize and report any concerns regarding pupil safety and well-being. Leaders work closely with external agencies to support families when necessary. Pupils receive guidance on staying safe, including online safety, and parents are provided with resources to help them navigate these issues.
Overall, Saint Sebastian’s Church of England Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education in a nurturing environment. The school’s leadership is focused on ongoing improvement, ensuring that all pupils receive the support they need to thrive academically and socially. The positive feedback from the school community reflects the strong relationships built within this inclusive setting, making it a valued institution in the local area.
