Mount Wise Community Primary School, located in Devonport, Plymouth, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 27 and 28, 2022. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils are happy, polite, and engaged in their learning. The curriculum is rich and varied, providing students with opportunities to explore their interests through activities such as visits to Dartmoor and interactions with renowned artists. The relationships between pupils and staff are strong, contributing to a supportive atmosphere. When behavioral issues arise, staff promptly address them, reinforcing the school’s high expectations. Pupils report that while unkind behavior can occur, it is effectively managed, resulting in minimal bullying and a strong sense of friendship among students.
In recent years, school leaders have implemented an ambitious new curriculum that has sparked enthusiasm among pupils. This curriculum is designed to challenge students and enhance their personal development through a wide range of experiences, including sports, community arts projects, and historical site visits. The focus on improving reading skills is evident, with a well-established early reading program that aligns closely with pupils' phonics knowledge.
Since joining the Learning Academies Trust in 2018, the school has prioritized curriculum reform, with senior leaders dedicating significant effort to this initiative over the past 18 months. They have carefully considered the essential knowledge that children should acquire, particularly in reading, geography, and history. Teachers have received training and support to enhance their subject knowledge and teaching methods, although some teachers still require further development to confidently deliver the new curriculum across all subjects. This has occasionally led to inaccuracies in assessing pupils' knowledge, which can hinder the effective breakdown of learning into manageable components.
The nursery program at Mount Wise is particularly strong, providing a solid foundation for children as they transition to the Reception class. The focus on language development is crucial in preparing young learners for future academic success. The school also effectively includes a high proportion of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary support to achieve their learning goals alongside their peers. However, there are challenges in accessing specialist support for pupils with speech and language needs.
Leaders have outlined plans to enhance pupils' spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, although further integration of these plans with the taught curriculum is needed. The school has navigated numerous changes, including those prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with sensitivity and determination. While some parents feel less informed about these changes, the overall positive impact on the school community is evident.
The safeguarding arrangements at Mount Wise are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to risks faced by pupils. The school collaborates with local agencies to ensure families receive necessary support. Staff are proactive in teaching pupils about safety, including online safety, as part of their lessons.
To improve further, the school must ensure that teachers effectively utilize assessments to inform their teaching and enhance pupils' retention of key knowledge. Additionally, addressing the high proportion of pupils with speech and language needs requires better access to specialist support. Overall, Mount Wise Community Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a nurturing environment for all its pupils.
