Pensford Primary School, located in Bristol, Somerset, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 7, 2023. The school offers an education that extends beyond traditional classroom learning, with leaders designing a curriculum that builds on pupils' life experiences and broadens their horizons. This approach fosters a love for learning among students, who achieve commendable results. The school enhances its educational offerings through a variety of trips, including residentials and visits to local attractions like The Roman Baths. Many pupils engage in sports and have celebrated successes in both local and national competitions, such as a recent fifth-place ranking in a national football league for Year 5 and 6 students. These experiences contribute to the development of confidence and resilience in pupils.
Students take pride in their school, maintaining a clean and tidy environment. They exhibit politeness and maturity, feeling trusted to manage their behavior. Most students do not perceive bullying as a significant issue, and they express confidence that staff will address any incidents that arise. Parents commend the school for its positive atmosphere and community spirit, noting that staff are approachable and that the inclusive environment effectively prepares children for their next educational stages.
The school leadership is ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. They have crafted a broad curriculum that leverages the local area, such as the River Chew, to enhance geography education. Leaders have identified key knowledge that pupils should acquire in each subject and have organized learning to ensure that knowledge is developed over time. They understand the importance of fostering great readers, scientists, and historians, aiming for pupils to achieve a deeper understanding across all subjects. Regular assessments help leaders monitor the quality of education effectively.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. In some subjects, leaders have not yet defined the incremental steps of knowledge and vocabulary that pupils should learn, which can hinder their ability to recall previous lessons and deepen their understanding. Teachers encourage discussions that help pupils articulate their thoughts and expand their vocabulary. However, there are instances where new learning is not explained clearly, leading to confusion about expectations and the effective use of resources.
The reading curriculum is robust, enabling pupils to read confidently and accurately. Teachers quickly identify those needing additional support, providing effective interventions to help them become fluent readers. By the end of Year 6, pupils achieve well, with engaging opportunities like becoming reading ambassadors promoting a culture of reading.
Positive relationships between pupils and staff are evident, with high expectations for behavior leading to attentive and engaged learners. Pupils learn about diversity and equality, exploring various races, religions, and family structures. The school fosters a culture of gratitude and reflection through interactions with community members, such as local charity representatives.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address concerns promptly. Leaders ensure appropriate referrals are made to safeguarding partners, and governors monitor these processes rigorously. The curriculum also educates pupils on safety, including online safety and the implications of risky behaviors.
To enhance its educational offerings, the school must ensure that all subjects have clearly defined knowledge sequences and that learning is presented effectively. This will help pupils build on their prior knowledge and deepen their understanding across the curriculum. Overall, Pensford Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong commitment to improvement and the well-being of its pupils.
