Riston Church of England Primary Academy continues to be recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 11, 2023. The leadership team demonstrates high aspirations for all pupils and collaborates with other small schools to provide a diverse range of learning opportunities. Most pupils express enjoyment in attending school, feeling happy and safe in their environment. They engage actively in lessons, displaying politeness and friendliness towards peers and adults. The school has a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying, and pupils are confident that any incidents will be addressed promptly.
The curriculum is designed to educate pupils about the diverse world beyond Riston, promoting respect and celebration of differences through various visits and guest speakers. Pupils articulate their understanding of diversity and equality with confidence. The leadership team, with support from the multi-academy trust, has developed a curriculum that meets the personal and academic needs of the pupils. However, some parents feel inadequately informed about their children's learning and school events, and leaders recognize the need to improve communication with parents.
The school excels in curriculum design, with subject plans that align with the national curriculum. Learning is structured from early years and builds progressively. Nonetheless, certain subjects lack detailed curriculum plans regarding the specific knowledge pupils are expected to acquire, which can hinder teachers' ability to adapt lessons effectively for mixed-age classes. Leaders are actively working to refine the curriculum in collaboration with other educational leaders.
Reading is a central focus at the school, with inviting reading areas in classrooms and a frequently used library. Pupils are encouraged to read daily, and reading lessons are well-structured to develop their skills. However, some pupils find the selected reading materials too easy or uninteresting, indicating a need for more engaging options. In the early years, children quickly adapt to the learning environment, supported by staff who foster positive attitudes towards learning. The phonics program is implemented consistently, and staff are well-trained to assist pupils in their reading development.
The mathematics curriculum has been recently reviewed, ensuring that teachers understand how to plan lessons that reinforce learning. All pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are provided with opportunities to engage in problem-solving and reasoning. Pupils with SEND receive effective support to access the same curriculum as their peers, although some support plans lack specificity, which can impede tailored assistance.
Leaders prioritize personal development opportunities for pupils, promoting the teachings of the Church of England while also introducing them to other faiths. Collaborative activities with a partner school enhance social skills and provide a broader perspective. The school community engages in various events, including sports and music, fostering a sense of belonging and participation.
The leadership team is aware of the challenges faced by staff in a small school and actively seeks to support their workload and well-being. However, communication with parents remains an area for improvement, as many feel uninformed about changes and their children's progress. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with clear policies and comprehensive training for staff. Pupils demonstrate awareness of online safety risks, indicating a strong understanding of safeguarding principles.
Overall, while Riston Church of England Primary Academy is a good school with many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in curriculum clarity, communication with parents, and the specificity of support plans for pupils with SEND.
