Bowerhill Primary School, located in Melksham, Wiltshire, has recently undergone an inspection that has resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant strides since its previous inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The headteacher, Chris Light, leads the school, which is part of The White Horse Federation, a multi-academy trust overseen by Simon Cowley, the interim chief executive officer, and a board of trustees chaired by Ninna Gibson.
Pupils at Bowerhill Primary express pride in their school and feel safe due to the strong relationships they have with staff. They are eager to take on responsibilities, such as serving as eco-councillors and school ambassadors, which fosters their understanding of democracy and respect. The school environment encourages hard work, with most pupils settling into lessons promptly and engaging actively in discussions. Their behavior is commendable, as they demonstrate courtesy towards peers and adults alike. Pupils feel confident that their concerns will be addressed by the staff.
The school effectively utilizes its values to guide pupils in making positive choices and developing their character. For instance, pupils exhibit responsibility by participating in charity fundraising and show respect by treating everyone fairly, contributing to an inclusive and supportive school community. Beyond academics, the school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs and trips to culturally significant locations, enhancing the pupils' learning experiences. Older students take on mentorship roles, demonstrating maturity as they support younger children.
Bowerhill Primary has prioritized reading, investing in engaging texts to foster a love for literature among pupils. The phonics program begins in the early years, with well-trained staff effectively teaching reading skills. Most pupils achieve fluency by the time they leave the school. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to build on previously learned concepts, although there are areas where knowledge retention could be improved, particularly in recently developed subjects.
The school has implemented teaching strategies that support all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Strong links with experts ensure that these pupils receive the necessary support to thrive. Attendance is high, and pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards their learning, applying resilience when faced with challenges.
Bowerhill Primary meticulously plans opportunities for pupils' wider development, with initiatives aimed at raising aspirations and reducing social disadvantage. The school fosters a deep understanding of equality and respect, empowering pupils to make a difference in their communities. The headteacher promotes a collaborative spirit among staff, who feel valued and supported in their roles. The trust and local governors provide appropriate oversight to ensure that every child reaches their potential.
Parents largely express satisfaction with the school, noting improvements in the curriculum that lead to better outcomes for their children. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, the school recognizes the need to further embed its teaching strategies across all subjects to enhance learning outcomes. The focus on developing a deep body of knowledge in all areas of the curriculum remains a priority as the school continues to build on its successes and address areas for improvement.
