Feering Church of England Primary School, located in Colchester, Essex, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on October 5 and 6, 2022. The school provides a positive environment where pupils feel happy and safe. They enjoy their time during breaks and engage well with one another, with older students often assisting younger ones. The behavior of pupils is commendable both in and out of lessons, and staff are well-trained to help students manage their emotions. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, pupils are confident that staff will address their concerns effectively.
The quality of education at Feering is strong, with pupils achieving well across the curriculum. The school has high expectations for its students, who respond positively by working hard to meet these standards. A notable aspect of the school is its emphasis on reading, with pupils expressing a love for diverse stories shared by their teachers. This not only enhances their reading skills but also broadens their understanding of different cultures, fostering respect and fairness towards others.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs and trips that enrich the learning experience. Older pupils take on leadership roles, such as playground buddies and collective worship leaders, which instills a sense of responsibility. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to build on their existing knowledge effectively. Reading is prioritized from the early years, with staff employing various strategies to promote literacy and a love for books.
Teachers regularly assess pupils' understanding and adapt their teaching accordingly. However, there are instances where less experienced staff may not fully utilize these assessments, leading to missed opportunities for some pupils to deepen their learning. Leaders are aware of this and are working to ensure that all staff effectively use assessment data to enhance teaching practices.
The school also focuses on developing pupils' speaking skills through public speaking and debate opportunities. The religious education curriculum encourages thoughtful discussions on significant questions, helping pupils appreciate diverse perspectives. Additionally, the school promotes wider development by teaching about different cultures, healthy relationships, and British values, ensuring that pupils are well-rounded individuals.
In the early years, children are introduced to routines and independence, preparing them for future learning. The transition to Year 1 is smooth, with effective communication between staff ensuring that children are well-supported. The trustees play an active role in holding school leaders accountable, ensuring that staff well-being and workload are managed effectively. Parental engagement is also a priority, with most parents expressing positive views about the school.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with thorough pre-employment checks and staff trained to identify and report concerns. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety, and know to approach adults with any worries. The school has a clear process for safeguarding, and trustees monitor these procedures closely.
While the school has many strengths, there is room for improvement in ensuring that all staff consistently use assessment checks to inform their teaching. This will help pupils build on their knowledge more effectively. Overall, Feering Church of England Primary School is a good school that provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal development.
