Cockwood Primary School, located in Exeter, Devon, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 18 October 2023. The head of school, Alison Roper, leads the institution, which is part of the Ivy Education Trust. This trust is overseen by CEO Katy Quinn and a board of trustees chaired by Tony Smith. The executive headteacher, Lorraine Curry, is responsible for this school and two others within the trust.
Pupils at Cockwood Primary School exhibit confidence and consideration, demonstrating enthusiasm for their education and a strong awareness of the world around them. The school fosters this through a wide range of opportunities, including leadership roles, residential trips, sporting events, and entrepreneurial projects. These experiences help students develop into responsible and respectful members of their communities. Younger pupils look up to older students as positive role models, and there is a shared ethos among staff and students that encourages high expectations and mutual support. The school’s values of perseverance, respect, reflection, creativity, ambition, and happiness are integral to this environment.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil behavior and conduct, contributing to a calm and purposeful atmosphere. Students feel safe and are engaged communicators, benefiting from a focus on oracy that allows them to express their views effectively. Parents and carers affirm that the school nurtures self-belief and a love of learning, preparing pupils well for their future educational journeys.
Cockwood Primary School has developed an ambitious curriculum that supports the wider development of all pupils. The curriculum is designed to provide a broad education from the early years, ensuring that students are well-prepared for secondary school and beyond. The school has prioritized improvements in core subjects, particularly mathematics and reading, taking effective actions to enhance educational quality following previous weaker outcomes. Teachers are well-trained and confident in their subject knowledge, delivering lessons in a clear and sequential manner that enables pupils to build on their learning effectively.
Pupils demonstrate a strong love for reading, becoming proficient as they progress through the school. The library offers a diverse selection of books, and pupil input was crucial in its recent overhaul to promote reading enjoyment. Early reading instruction focuses on phonics, ensuring that students develop the necessary skills to read accurately. The school is proactive in identifying pupils who may struggle and provides timely support to help them catch up.
While the school excels in many areas, it acknowledges that some subjects in the wider curriculum are not as well embedded as others. This inconsistency affects pupils' confidence and recall of their learning in these subjects. The school is committed to ensuring that all subjects meet the same high standards and is working to fully integrate these areas into the curriculum.
The school is inclusive, effectively identifying and meeting the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers collaborate with external professionals to provide appropriate support, ensuring that all students can access the ambitious curriculum. The school takes a robust approach to attendance and addresses any potential concerns regarding absence.
Overall, the school’s focus on the holistic development of pupils, including their safety and well-being, is a significant strength. Pupils learn about online safety and diversity, demonstrating tolerance and respect for differences. The governance of the school is strong, with trustees possessing a clear understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students.
