Brent Knoll Church of England Primary School, located in Somerset, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on September 12 and 13, 2023. The headteacher, Christopher Burman, leads the school, which is part of the Wessex Learning Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Gavin Ball and a board of trustees chaired by Brian Kirkup. The school’s vision, “Let your light shine,” encourages pupils to strive for their best, and this ethos is reflected in the positive attitudes of the students towards learning. Pupils express their understanding of core values such as respect and hope, contributing to a supportive and safe environment.
Students enjoy attending school and demonstrate excellent behavior, fostering warm relationships with staff and peers. The school promotes inclusivity, helping pupils understand and appreciate differences, which enhances their sense of safety. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including day trips that enrich the curriculum, such as visits to London. Leadership opportunities are available through environmental and fundraising initiatives, encouraging students to become responsible citizens. The school also provides a range of clubs, including basketball, cooking, martial arts, and gardening, which are well-attended by all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Parental feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with all respondents to Ofsted’s Parent View survey expressing their willingness to recommend the school to other families. Since the last inspection, the school has joined the Wessex Learning Trust and opened a provision for two- and three-year-olds in 2021. This has allowed the school to build on early learning effectively, ensuring that children in Nursery and Reception receive a strong start. Staff prioritize the development of language and social skills, leading to confident and independent children who are well-prepared for Year 1.
The school excels in promoting reading, beginning in the early years with high-quality books integrated into the curriculum. Pupils are supported in their reading journey, with additional help provided promptly for those who need it. In key stage two, students engage with a variety of texts, including novels and non-fiction, which are carefully selected to promote understanding of diversity and different cultures. Older pupils read fluently and with expression, demonstrating a deep understanding of the material.
In English and mathematics, staff effectively introduce new concepts, building on prior knowledge. However, in some other subjects, the curriculum lacks the same level of precision, leading to gaps in pupils’ knowledge. While assessment practices in English and mathematics are strong, the school is still refining its approach in other subjects to better understand pupil progress over time.
The school is adept at identifying the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they follow the same curriculum as their peers. Tailored strategies are in place to support these students, enabling them to achieve well. Personal development opportunities are abundant, with pupils participating in music festivals, traditional dancing, and various trips that enhance their overall growth.
Staff well-being is a priority for school leaders, who are considerate of their workload. As a result, staff express positivity about their work environment and the support they receive. The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe learning environment for all students. Moving forward, the school aims to refine its curriculum and assessment practices to ensure all areas are developed to the same high standard as English and mathematics, addressing any gaps in knowledge and enhancing the overall educational experience for its pupils.
