Bibury Church of England Primary School, located in Gloucestershire, has recently undergone an inspection, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on the 24th and 25th of May 2023. The school is characterized by a welcoming and inclusive environment where every pupil feels valued and supported. The leadership team has a clear vision that emphasizes the importance of fostering a love for life and learning among students. This vision is evident in the way pupils engage with their education, demonstrating curiosity and enthusiasm for learning new concepts.
Pupils at Bibury Primary School exhibit exemplary behavior and attitudes towards their education. They adhere to high expectations set by adults and are recognized as excellent role models within the school community. The school promotes a culture of kindness and respect, contributing to a positive atmosphere where pupils thrive. The school goes beyond traditional educational experiences by offering unique opportunities such as surfing lessons and piano classes, which enrich the pupils' learning experiences. Additionally, practical life skills are taught, including budgeting and cooking, which further enhance their personal development.
Safety is a priority at Bibury Primary School, with pupils expressing confidence in the support provided by staff. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils feel comfortable discussing any issues they may encounter. The school has received positive feedback from parents, who appreciate the familial atmosphere and the attentiveness of the staff to their concerns.
The leadership and staff work collaboratively to deliver a rich and ambitious curriculum. The curriculum is well-structured, ensuring that essential knowledge and skills are clearly defined and revisited regularly to reinforce learning. For example, Year 5 pupils utilize 'flashbacks' in mathematics to strengthen their understanding of short division. While staff effectively check pupil progress, there are occasions when assessments do not fully identify when pupils require additional challenges.
Reading is a strong focus at the school, with children learning to read from the outset of their education. The phonics curriculum is consistently implemented, enabling pupils to become confident and fluent readers. The school also emphasizes the development of wider reading skills, such as inference and vocabulary acquisition. Leaders are proactive in identifying pupils who struggle with reading and provide necessary support to enhance their skills.
The school excels in fostering personal development, offering pupils opportunities to engage with the wider community and reflect on global issues. Pupils participate in discussions about current events and contribute to local initiatives, such as visiting care homes. They also take on leadership roles within the school, further developing their sense of responsibility.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with leaders prioritizing the safety and well-being of pupils. Staff receive training to recognize and address potential risks, ensuring a safe environment for all students. Pupils are educated on various safety topics, including internet and road safety.
To improve, the school should focus on enhancing the use of assessment to ensure that the curriculum is appropriately matched to the abilities of all pupils. This will help to ensure that every student is sufficiently challenged in their learning journey. Overall, Bibury Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and nurturing environment for its pupils.
