Winshill Village Primary and Nursery School is a vibrant and welcoming educational institution located in Burton-on-Trent. The school has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming part of the John Taylor Multi Academy Trust, receiving a commendable overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection, conducted on June 7 and 8, 2022, highlighted several strengths within the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all rated as good.
Pupils at Winshill Village Primary and Nursery School exhibit a positive attitude towards their learning environment. They arrive at school eager to engage in their daily activities and express a sense of pride in their school community. The school fosters a culture of respect and kindness, with pupils demonstrating good behavior both in lessons and during playtime. Instances of bullying are reported to be rare, and pupils feel confident that any issues will be addressed promptly by the staff. The well-being of students is prioritized, with trusted adults available for pupils to discuss any concerns they may have.
The school offers a broad and engaging curriculum, with a particular emphasis on reading, mathematics, and science. Leaders have invested significantly in curriculum development, ensuring that staff receive appropriate training to enhance their teaching practices. While many subjects are well-established, some areas, such as computing, are still in the early stages of implementation, leading to gaps in pupils' knowledge. Leaders are aware of this and are actively working to address these issues to ensure all subjects are effectively delivered.
Reading is a key focus at Winshill Village, with leaders aiming for every pupil to develop a love for reading. The school implements a structured phonics program, beginning in the nursery and continuing through reception, to support early literacy skills. Staff are trained to identify pupils who may require additional support, ensuring that interventions are timely and effective. Older pupils demonstrate a strong understanding and enjoyment of their reading materials.
The school is inclusive, providing good support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The special educational needs coordinator works closely with staff and families to create tailored plans that facilitate the learning of these pupils. This inclusive approach ensures that all students are fully integrated into school life and have access to the resources they need to succeed.
Beyond academics, the school emphasizes the importance of pupils' spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development. Lessons are designed to help students understand healthy relationships and respect for diverse beliefs. Enrichment activities, including trips and guest speakers, further enhance the educational experience.
Governance at Winshill Village is strong, with governors and trust staff actively involved in the school's operations. They provide support and challenge to school leaders, ensuring that staff workload is manageable and that teachers feel valued in their roles. The school community is proud of its achievements and is committed to continuous improvement.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong culture of safety evident throughout the school. Staff are well-trained to recognize and address any concerns regarding pupil welfare. Pupils feel secure and are educated on how to stay safe in various contexts, including online environments.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders are encouraged to provide more opportunities for higher-attaining pupils to extend their learning and ensure that all subjects are effectively planned and delivered. Overall, Winshill Village Primary and Nursery School is a nurturing environment where pupils are encouraged to thrive academically and personally.
