Badbury Park Primary School, located in Coate, Swindon, Wiltshire, has recently undergone its first inspection since opening in 2019. The inspection, conducted from January 24 to 25, 2024, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across all evaluated areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The headteacher, Louise Dance, leads the school, which is part of The Blue Kite Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Gary Evans and chaired by Pauline Miller.
The school is characterized by a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment for its pupils. The core values of the school, referred to as the 4 Bs, emphasize being ambitious, adventurous, curious, and kind. These values are integrated into the daily experiences of the students, promoting positive relationships and a collective responsibility for kindness among all members of the school community. The well-being and safety of pupils are prioritized, with staff forming trusting relationships that allow students to feel happy, safe, and valued. This supportive environment is evident during playtimes and lunchtimes, where pupils of all ages interact positively.
Badbury Park Primary School maintains high expectations for pupil behavior, and students consistently meet these standards. They demonstrate respect and appreciation for diversity, contributing to a polite and well-mannered school culture. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, designed to broaden pupils' experiences through various trips and visitors. Students are encouraged to take on additional responsibilities, such as participating in the school council, which further enhances their engagement and sense of belonging.
The curriculum is broad and ambitious, with a focus on sequencing learning to build knowledge over time. Pupils are able to recall prior learning effectively, particularly in subjects like science and history. The school recognizes the need for further embedding the curriculum in some foundation subjects, as there are areas where the precise knowledge that pupils should acquire has not yet been clearly defined. This gap can hinder the depth of understanding necessary for making connections with previous learning. Additionally, there is a need for better adaptation of learning to ensure that all pupils progress effectively based on their individual knowledge and capabilities.
Reading is a significant focus at Badbury Park Primary School, starting in the early years. Children in the Nursery are introduced to sounds, which prepares them for phonics instruction in Reception. The reading curriculum is well-organized, ensuring that pupils learn the necessary skills to blend sounds and read simple words. Staff are trained to provide consistent phonics instruction, and regular assessments help identify pupils who require additional support. The school promotes a love of reading through engaging storytelling and high-quality texts, fostering a passion for literature among students.
The school has developed a nurturing environment that quickly identifies the needs of children, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff are equipped to support these pupils effectively, ensuring they progress well through the curriculum. The school's values also underpin its approach to personal development, teaching pupils about tolerance, diversity, and healthy relationships. Students learn to maintain their physical and mental health and understand the importance of online safety.
Governance at Badbury Park Primary School is strong, with trustees and local governors providing effective support and challenge. They manage resources well and hold the school accountable for improvements. Staff express pride in their work and appreciate the professional development opportunities provided by the trust, which enhances the implementation of the curriculum.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. However, to improve further, the school must identify essential knowledge across all subjects and ensure that learning is adapted to deepen pupils' understanding. By addressing these areas, Badbury Park Primary School can continue to enhance its educational provision and support the growth of its students.
