Bridgerule Church of England Primary School, located in Holsworthy, Devon, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 17, 2022. The school’s mission to nurture, flourish, and succeed is evident in the warm and welcoming environment created by the staff. Parents and pupils alike express confidence in the school’s commitment to inclusivity and support, with students reporting positive relationships and a strong sense of community. The school emphasizes good behavior and has established a culture where bullying is not tolerated, further enhancing the supportive atmosphere.
The academic performance of pupils is commendable, with systematic teaching methods in reading, writing, and mathematics. Younger students effectively grasp foundational skills, while older pupils engage with a diverse range of literature and tackle complex mathematical challenges. The staff ensures that those who struggle with learning receive tailored support, allowing all students to progress through the curriculum successfully. Parents have overwhelmingly positive feedback about the school, often describing it with terms like amazing, wonderful, and friendly.
The school excels in its reading program, which begins in Reception and builds confidence through structured routines and frequent reading opportunities. This approach benefits all pupils, including those with special educational needs, ensuring they develop strong reading skills. The commitment to reading is reflected in the regular read-aloud sessions conducted by teachers, exposing students to various authors and genres, which fosters a love for reading.
Mathematics is another area where pupils thrive, as teachers effectively identify learning gaps and adapt their planning to meet individual needs. This careful approach allows students to build their knowledge progressively, preparing them to tackle more complex problems with confidence. The curriculum has recently been strengthened in collaboration with the Dartmoor Multi-Academy Trust, focusing on key knowledge and concepts across subjects. For instance, younger pupils in history are developing a sense of chronology through engaging lessons about different historical periods.
The school has also expanded its offerings to include a foundation stage unit for children aged two and above. Staff provide a nurturing environment where children learn to socialize and engage in various activities. However, there is a need for clearer connections in the curriculum to ensure it builds on prior knowledge and challenges children effectively.
Bridgerule School is underpinned by strong values and a Christian ethos, promoting respect and reflection among pupils. They take pride in their contributions to the community, participating in initiatives like developing a community library and reading to local residents. The personal, social, and health education curriculum is well-structured and tailored to meet the needs of the pupils, preparing them for future educational stages.
Staff members express pride in their work and feel supported by school leaders and the Multi-Academy Trust. Leaders are aware of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, particularly in customizing the curriculum to better reflect the local context and addressing the specific needs of pupils.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with a strong commitment to keeping pupils safe and healthy. Staff receive regular training, and clear procedures are in place for reporting concerns. Pupils feel safe and are educated on how to maintain their safety, including online safety practices.
Overall, Bridgerule Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective learning environment, with a clear focus on academic achievement and personal development. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address areas for further improvement, ensuring that all pupils thrive in their educational journey.
