Shillingstone Church of England Primary School, located in Blandford Forum, Dorset, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The school, which is part of the Sherborne Area Schools’ Trust, is led by headteacher Jane Whitehouse-Sharpe and has a strong leadership structure overseen by CEO Brian Hooper and chair David Middleton. The inspection took place on 31 October and 1 November 2023, marking the school’s first evaluation under the Education Act 2005.
Pupils at Shillingstone are noted for their pride in being part of an inclusive and caring community. They demonstrate kindness and patience towards one another, recognizing and celebrating their differences. The relationships between pupils and staff are warm, fostering a safe environment conducive to learning. The school maintains high expectations for its students, who engage enthusiastically in a broad curriculum that encourages discussion and curiosity. The positive attitudes of the pupils towards their education are evident, as they are polite and welcoming to visitors and play well together across age groups.
The school has successfully integrated new cohorts following a recent merger with another local primary school, adapting its curriculum to meet the needs of all students. The ambitious curriculum is designed to ensure that all subjects are valued, with a focus on teaching by subject experts in areas such as music and French. While most pupils benefit from these improvements, there are instances where the delivery of the curriculum does not always align with its intent, leading to some pupils not progressing to more complex work when ready. The school has yet to fully evaluate the impact of these recent changes.
A strong emphasis is placed on early reading, mathematics, and writing, with staff ensuring that information is presented clearly and that pupils’ understanding is checked before introducing new content. This approach has proven effective for most pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school’s commitment to early reading is evident, as children begin phonics instruction as soon as they start school, with tailored support for those who struggle.
Pupils are well-behaved and understand the school’s behavior systems, which promote good choices and mutual support. The early years’ children quickly adapt to routines and engage positively with their peers. The school prioritizes the mental and physical health of its pupils, teaching them resilience and how to navigate challenges, such as friendship issues.
The school’s pastoral care is a notable strength, with staff knowing each pupil well and ensuring they feel cared for. Pupils learn about respect, discrimination, and democracy, contributing to a harmonious school culture. Parents express overwhelming positivity regarding their children’s experiences at the school, reflecting the high expectations set by the school and trust.
While the school has made significant strides, it must focus on ensuring that the implementation of the curriculum consistently matches its ambitious intent. The trust is tasked with supporting teachers in effectively delivering the curriculum to maximize benefits for all pupils. The school has not yet evaluated the effectiveness of its curriculum changes, which is essential for ensuring that all students receive the intended educational outcomes. Overall, Shillingstone Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a quality education within a supportive and inclusive environment.
