North Tawton Community Primary School and Nursery, located in Devon, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 23 and 24, 2022. The school has created an environment where pupils feel valued and proud to attend. Students actively participate in leadership roles, such as being part of the school council or serving as wildlife ambassadors. They also enjoy engaging in school trips and visits, which contribute to their enthusiasm for learning. Parents express satisfaction with the school, highlighting the effective balance between academic rigor and pastoral care.
Pupils exhibit good manners and politeness, demonstrating positive behavior throughout the school. While there have been occasional reports of bullying, the school staff address these incidents promptly, ensuring a safe environment for all students. The nursery provides a strong foundation for young children, fostering nurturing relationships with adults and allowing them to learn alongside older peers. Staff maintain high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they develop essential skills in reading, writing, and mathematics.
The school has undergone significant leadership changes in recent years, which initially led to some instability in performance. However, since joining a multi-academy trust in 2018 and the appointment of a new chief executive officer in January 2021, the school has made considerable progress. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, school leaders have worked diligently to provide a comprehensive and ambitious curriculum, resulting in improvements across most subjects.
Reading and mathematics have been prioritized, with early years pupils learning to read from their first day at school. The phonics program is consistently implemented, enabling pupils to develop strong reading and writing skills. Students are provided with books that match their reading abilities, and those who require additional support receive timely assistance from knowledgeable staff. The school fosters a love for reading, with pupils eagerly anticipating daily read-aloud sessions.
The mathematics curriculum is well-structured, with a focus on building pupils' understanding of numbers and problem-solving skills from an early age. Most students, including those needing to catch up, benefit from a curriculum tailored to their starting points. However, some advanced mathematicians in key stage one may require more challenging tasks to further their development.
Curriculum leaders demonstrate a commitment to enhancing their subjects, seeking new opportunities for pupils to expand their learning experiences. While most subjects are well-designed and sequenced, leaders recognize that certain areas, such as history and geography, need further attention. There is a need for higher expectations regarding what key stage one pupils can achieve, as some activities may be too easy, hindering their learning potential.
The school ensures that pupils with special educational needs are fully included in all aspects of school life, with leaders quickly identifying their needs and providing appropriate support. Pupils are educated about risk and safety, including online safety and cyberbullying, fostering a respectful and cooperative classroom environment.
The curriculum promotes a strong understanding of equality, with pupils learning about diversity and the importance of inclusivity. The school effectively prepares students for life in modern Britain, emphasizing social, spiritual, and cultural awareness. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to identify potential abuse and maintain a safe learning environment.
Overall, North Tawton Community Primary School and Nursery continues to provide a good education, with a strong emphasis on academic achievement, personal development, and inclusivity. The school is committed to ongoing improvement, ensuring that all pupils receive a challenging and supportive educational experience.
