Bere Alston Primary Academy, located in Devon, has recently undergone an inspection on the 5th and 6th of March 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school, which caters to children aged 2 to 11, is part of the First Federation Trust and is led by headteacher Gareth Bemister. The trust is overseen by CEO Paul Walker and a board of trustees chaired by Alex Walmsley. This inspection marks the first routine evaluation since the school converted to an academy in December 2019.
Pupils at Bere Alston Primary Academy express enjoyment in attending the school, attributing this to the positive school values promoted through the initiative known as give me 5. These values contribute to a happy and safe learning environment. The school has established high expectations, and children in the early years adapt well to school life, quickly learning the rules and routines that prepare them for key stage 1. Throughout the school, pupils demonstrate politeness and enthusiasm for learning, actively listening during lessons.
The staff at Bere Alston Primary Academy prioritize building warm and secure relationships with pupils and their families, fostering a nurturing environment conducive to learning. Pupils feel safe and supported, which enhances their educational experience. The school offers a diverse range of enrichment activities beyond the academic curriculum, including coding clubs and arts and crafts, as well as opportunities for pupils to engage in sports and leadership roles. For instance, key stage 2 pupils organize lunchtime activities for younger students and participate in the school council, allowing them to explore new interests and discover hidden talents.
The school has ambitious goals for all pupils, particularly following a period of significant changes in leadership and staffing. With support from the trust, the school has stabilized and designed an ambitious curriculum that begins in the early years, focusing on effective communication and positive attitudes toward learning. Reading is a priority, with staff equipped to help pupils develop strong reading skills. Early years children learn phonics and begin reading simple words, with books tailored to their phonetic knowledge to support fluency. When pupils encounter difficulties, staff provide effective support to help them catch up, and a selection of high-quality books covering various genres promotes cultural understanding.
Teachers effectively utilize their subject knowledge to explain new concepts clearly. In most subjects, assessment is used effectively to identify gaps in pupils' knowledge. For example, in mathematics, teachers revisit previous learning to address misconceptions, helping pupils build confidence and understanding. However, in some subjects, assessment systems are still being developed, leading to less effective use of assessment information. In history, for instance, while pupils can recall information about the Victorians, they may struggle with topics like the Mayans, indicating a need for improved assessment practices to ensure a solid understanding of the curriculum.
The school accurately identifies the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) from the moment they join. Individual pupil plans are precise, and staff closely follow them, ensuring that pupils with SEND learn alongside their peers and are fully included in school life. Pupils take pride in their work, and social interactions are positive, with children learning to share and take turns. The school maintains a calm environment where respect is shown among pupils and adults.
Bere Alston Primary Academy has high expectations for pupil attendance, with a robust monitoring system in place. Swift action is taken if attendance begins to decline. The school effectively supports pupils' personal development, teaching them about the diverse world beyond their local community and the importance of fundamental British values such as democracy and tolerance.
Trustees are aware of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, holding leaders accountable for their actions. The school and trust prioritize staff development, with teachers valuing the support they receive to enhance their teaching skills. The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
In summary, Bere Alston Primary Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive and enriching environment. While the school excels in many areas, there is a need for continued development in assessment practices across certain subjects to ensure all pupils build their knowledge effectively over time.
