Combe Martin Primary School, located in Devon, has been inspected and continues to be rated as a good school. The inspection, conducted on March 7 and 8, 2023, revealed that while the overall judgment remains unchanged, there are indications that the school may not achieve the same rating if a graded inspection were to occur soon. The next inspection will be a graded one, reflecting the need for further evaluation of the school's performance.
The school is characterized by a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, where leaders prioritize building trusting relationships within the school community. This environment fosters a sense of safety and value among pupils. Students collaborate effectively, although some areas of the curriculum require better design to enhance knowledge retention. Younger children exhibit enthusiasm for learning, while older pupils demonstrate focus and diligence in their studies. Established routines contribute to the smooth operation of the school.
During playtimes, pupils engage respectfully with one another, benefiting from the support of Year 6 play leaders who encourage kindness. Students understand the importance of seeking help from adults when faced with problems, and while bullying is acknowledged as rare, pupils feel confident that teachers will address any concerns. The school emphasizes character development and promotes fundamental British values, teaching pupils the significance of respect and understanding differing viewpoints.
Combe Martin Primary School offers a range of extracurricular activities, including residential trips that enhance pupils' confidence. The curriculum is undergoing review and updates, with a focus on English and mathematics, which are well-structured. However, some subjects still require improvement in their curriculum design. Leaders are aware of these shortcomings and are in the early stages of addressing them. The school has successfully fostered a love for reading and language, starting from the nursery level, and the early reading curriculum is particularly effective.
In mathematics, support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is tailored to their individual requirements, allowing them to engage with the same curriculum as their peers. The school prioritizes reading skills, recognizing their importance for future learning. While the leadership team is ambitious and supportive, communication with parents could be improved, as some parents express concerns about the effectiveness of this communication.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with pupils aware of trusted adults and the importance of reporting concerns. Staff receive training to identify signs of abuse, and the school collaborates with external agencies to provide early help to families. Policies are in place to raise awareness about issues such as online safety and sexual harassment.
To enhance the quality of education, the school must clarify the essential knowledge that pupils need to acquire in foundation subjects and improve assessment practices to identify knowledge gaps. This will ensure that learning is adapted to meet the needs of all pupils. Overall, Combe Martin Primary School demonstrates a commitment to fostering a positive learning environment, but it must continue to address curriculum design and assessment practices to maintain and improve its standards.
