St Helen's Church of England School in Abbotsham, Bideford, Devon, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 8 and 9, 2022. The school fosters a family-oriented community where pupils feel valued and safe. Students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are fully included in school life, and there is a strong sense of camaraderie among them. The school effectively addresses any issues that arise, contributing to a positive atmosphere where bullying is not perceived to be a problem.
Pupils respond positively to the high expectations set by staff, demonstrating strong attitudes towards their learning. The leadership team emphasizes character development, encouraging students to make a difference both locally and beyond. While most students behave well, there are occasional reminders needed for some to move calmly around the school, but this does not disrupt the overall orderly environment.
Parents generally express satisfaction with the school's impact on their children, feeling that their children are safe and well cared for. They appreciate the promotion of good behavior through various initiatives, including outdoor learning and the school's Christian ethos. However, some parents believe that certain subjects could be strengthened within the curriculum, and there is a desire for more extracurricular clubs and activities.
The school excels in its expectations for pupil achievement, with effective governance holding leaders accountable. Staff plan engaging learning experiences that cater to the interests of all pupils, including those with special educational needs. The curriculum is successfully delivered, aligning with the school's mission to inspire change-makers. A strong emphasis is placed on teaching reading, with a robust early reading program in place. Children begin learning letter sounds as soon as they enter Reception, and the careful matching of books to pupils' knowledge supports their reading development.
Pupils develop a love for reading, often expressing enjoyment of the stories they encounter. The mathematics curriculum is particularly well-structured, with clear sequencing that builds on prior knowledge. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge, effectively explaining new concepts and addressing gaps in understanding.
However, some subjects, such as history, are still in the early stages of development. The curriculum design lacks clarity in sequencing and what pupils should know, leading to uncertainty among teachers regarding the key knowledge to impart. Consequently, while pupils may know many historical facts, they struggle with contextual understanding and critical analysis of sources.
Overall, pupils achieve well, particularly in established subjects like English and mathematics. In newer curriculum areas, retention of key knowledge is inconsistent, which can hinder their ability to tackle more complex tasks. The early years program is ambitious, with knowledgeable staff delivering engaging learning experiences that promote reading and early mathematics skills.
The school places a strong emphasis on pupils' wider development, integrating spiritual, moral, social, and cultural education throughout the curriculum. Pupils learn about their roles as global and local citizens, with fundamental British values seamlessly woven into their education. Safeguarding measures are effective, with knowledgeable leaders and well-established processes in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all students. Staff are well-trained and diligent in their responsibilities, fostering a supportive environment for pupils and their families. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with leaders recognizing the need to refine curriculum planning in certain subjects to enhance pupil knowledge retention and understanding.
