St Mary's Broughton Gifford Church of England Primary School is a welcoming village primary school located in the heart of the community. The school has a positive atmosphere where pupils express enjoyment in attending, describing it as a big family. The relationships among pupils and between pupils and adults are respectful, fostering a safe environment where bullying is reported to be rare. From the Reception Year onwards, staff maintain high expectations for pupil behavior, which is reflected in the positive attitudes towards learning observed in lessons. Pupils are eager to participate and collaborate well during social times, supported by play ambassadors who encourage active play.
The leadership team has designed a curriculum that broadens pupils' understanding of the world beyond their local area, emphasizing the importance of equality and community support. Pupils engage in charitable activities, selecting causes to support and raising funds. The school offers a variety of clubs, and pupils take pride in representing their school in local sports competitions. Older pupils enjoy mentoring younger ones, fostering a sense of responsibility and community.
Leaders are ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. They have a clear vision for the school, which is supported by the trust. A significant focus has been placed on improving the quality of education, particularly in reading. The school employs a systematic approach to teaching phonics, ensuring that pupils receive the necessary support to keep up with their peers. However, some pupils who struggle with reading do not always have access to books that match their phonetic knowledge, which can hinder their fluency.
The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to build on prior knowledge effectively. For instance, in mathematics, pupils apply their understanding of numbers to solve problems involving angles. The emphasis on mathematical vocabulary helps pupils articulate their thought processes clearly. Teachers utilize assessment data to adapt future learning, ensuring that pupils are challenged appropriately.
Despite the strengths in the curriculum, some subjects are relatively new, and leaders have yet to fully assess their implementation. There are gaps in knowledge that need to be addressed, particularly in art, where pupils' work does not reflect the curriculum's ambitions. Leaders and staff are adept at identifying pupils with special educational needs, regularly reviewing the effectiveness of the support provided. Pupils with SEND have access to the same curriculum as their peers, with tailored resources to aid their learning.
Established routines contribute to a focused learning environment, with pupils demonstrating confidence in sharing their ideas. The school prioritizes the development of communication and language skills, evident in the collaborative work of Reception Year pupils who use advanced vocabulary in their discussions. Personal development is promoted through the school's Christian ethos, with pupils reflecting on core values during collective worship and learning about healthy relationships and lifestyles.
The governing body has a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, providing appropriate support and challenge to leaders. Staff appreciate the professional development opportunities available to them and feel that their well-being is considered. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance and support for pupils' safety. Overall, St Mary's Broughton Gifford Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
