Holywell Church of England School in Tawstock, Barnstaple, Devon, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 8, 2022. The school fosters a strong sense of pride among its pupils, who are eager to learn and embody the Christian values that permeate the school environment. Pupils feel safe and supported, knowing they can share their concerns with staff who take them seriously. The school promotes a culture of care and respect, which contributes to a positive atmosphere where bullying is not a concern.
Leaders at Holywell have high expectations for pupil achievement, and students respond positively to these expectations. They demonstrate commitment to their learning and work well together, which aids their progression through the curriculum. The school provides opportunities for pupils to learn about diverse cultures and perspectives, enhancing their understanding and respect for differences. Parents and carers generally hold favorable views of the school, appreciating the individual attention their children receive.
The curriculum at Holywell is designed to ensure that pupils acquire essential knowledge and skills necessary for their success. Most pupils benefit from a structured approach that helps them retain information over time. However, there are inconsistencies in how prior knowledge is assessed and utilized, which can hinder some pupils' ability to remember what they have learned. The school recognizes this area for improvement and is working to enhance the effectiveness of its curriculum implementation.
Reading is a priority at Holywell, with pupils starting to learn as soon as they join the school. Staff engage pupils with carefully selected books that expand their vocabulary and comprehension skills. The school provides parents with information about phonics, supporting them in understanding the reading approach. Staff receive ongoing training in phonics, ensuring that teaching is effective and that struggling readers receive the necessary support to catch up.
In the early years, children quickly adapt to the school's routines, benefiting from staff who model language and ask questions to extend learning. Teachers are attentive to the individual needs of pupils, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate support to thrive academically.
Pupils at Holywell are encouraged to be active members of their community, participating in fundraising projects and learning about various types of relationships. The school environment promotes inclusivity, allowing pupils to explore diverse perspectives through literature that challenges stereotypes. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with older students guiding younger ones in making positive choices.
Staff report high levels of job satisfaction, feeling supported in their roles and sharing a common goal of wanting the best for every child. Leaders are mindful of staff workload and provide time for the implementation of new initiatives. The school has realistic development plans and has navigated leadership transitions effectively, with governors actively monitoring the impact of leadership actions on educational quality.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to identify and address potential risks. Pupils learn about safety, including online safety, and the school communicates important information to parents. Overall, Holywell Church of England School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment, with clear areas identified for further improvement in curriculum delivery to enhance pupil learning outcomes.
