Nerrols Primary School and Nursery, located in Taunton, Somerset, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good, with early years provision rated as outstanding. The inspection took place on 28 and 29 March 2023, marking the first routine inspection since the COVID-19 pandemic. The school is part of the Richard Huish multi-academy trust and serves a smaller than average student population, currently accommodating pupils from ages two to eleven.
The school fosters a positive environment where pupils are friendly, kind, and respectful towards one another. High attendance rates reflect the pupils' enthusiasm for attending school. They report that bullying is not an issue, and if any problems arise, staff are quick to address them. Strong relationships between staff and pupils contribute to a nurturing atmosphere where students feel cared for and secure. The early years curriculum is particularly effective, providing children with an excellent start to their education, helping them learn school routines and thrive in their development.
Pupils at Nerrols have numerous opportunities to develop leadership skills, such as participating in the student council and acting as reading champions. They also take on roles as play leaders during breaks, promoting a collaborative and enjoyable play environment. Parents express overwhelming satisfaction with the quality of education and pastoral support provided by the school, with many praising the dedication of the staff.
The headteacher's vision is shared by staff and governors, who have worked diligently to create a well-structured curriculum across various subjects. In mathematics, for instance, pupils revisit foundational concepts to tackle increasingly complex problems. In English, they engage with a diverse range of texts, enhancing their understanding of writing techniques and vocabulary. However, the school acknowledges that the curriculum in some subjects requires further development to ensure that pupils can build on their prior knowledge effectively.
Reading is prioritized throughout the school, with a successful early reading program in place. Staff are well-trained and effectively teach phonics, enabling pupils to make strong connections between letters and sounds. Continuous assessment allows teachers to adapt their instruction to meet the needs of their students, resulting in strong reading skills from early years through to Year Five. The enthusiasm for reading is evident, with pupils eagerly engaging with high-quality texts.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge, and pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive tailored support. The SEND coordinator collaborates with teachers, parents, and pupils to ensure effective learning strategies are in place. The school emphasizes emotional well-being and physical health, educating pupils on important topics such as the dangers of vaping and the significance of discussing mental health concerns.
Behaviour management is effective, with pupils motivated to succeed and take pride in their work. The nurturing relationships fostered by staff contribute to a significant reduction in suspensions. The early years curriculum excels in developing children's speech and language skills, with a strong focus on vocabulary and grammar. Disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND thrive due to the emphasis on language development.
Governors and the trust are well-informed about the school, asking challenging questions and supporting staff effectively. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, ensuring that pupils are emotionally and physically safe. Staff receive comprehensive training to recognize potential risks to children, and the curriculum includes lessons on online safety and road safety.
To improve, the school must focus on developing a coherent curriculum across all subjects, ensuring that it is sequenced effectively to facilitate progressive learning. This will enable pupils to build on their existing knowledge and enhance their overall educational experience.
