Avanti Park School, located in Frome, Somerset, has recently undergone an inspection, with the evaluation taking place from February 20 to 21, 2024. The school has been rated as good overall, with outstanding marks in behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The quality of education is also deemed good, while early years provision is rated as good as well. This inspection marks the first evaluation under section five of the Education Act 2005, as the school had not been previously inspected.
The principal of Avanti Park School is Abby Atkins, and the school operates under the Avanti Schools Trust, which is overseen by CEO Nitesh Gor and a board of trustees chaired by Michael Younger. The school has established a nurturing environment where pupils thrive, supported by staff who have high expectations for academic achievement and personal growth. The school has seen rapid improvements in pupil achievements across various curriculum areas.
The atmosphere at Avanti Park School is described as warm and friendly, fostering calmness and joy. Pupils exhibit exemplary behavior, demonstrating politeness and consideration towards peers and staff. This positive environment allows for uninterrupted learning, contributing to pupils feeling safe and happy at school. Attendance rates have significantly improved, reflecting the enjoyment pupils find in their educational experience.
Pupils at Avanti Park School have numerous opportunities to explore their interests and passions through a variety of clubs and trips. The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as those who are disadvantaged, can participate fully in school activities. The primary phase includes outdoor education as part of the curriculum, enhancing the learning experience.
The curriculum at Avanti Park School is broad and ambitious, designed to meet the needs of all pupils. Staff are well-informed about what pupils need to learn and remember, ensuring that important concepts are revisited frequently. This approach helps pupils retain knowledge and build upon it effectively. The early years curriculum is rich and engaging, promoting a love of learning and preparing children for future educational stages.
Teachers utilize their subject expertise to deliver clear explanations and help pupils connect new information with prior knowledge. They are adept at identifying gaps in pupils' understanding and revisiting these areas to ensure comprehensive learning. While pupils, including those with special educational needs and disadvantaged backgrounds, are beginning to demonstrate improved knowledge retention, there is still room for growth in achieving optimal outcomes. The quality of written work does not consistently reflect pupils' capabilities, indicating a need for further development in this area.
In the early years, children make a strong start in phonics, with most learning to read quickly. Those who struggle receive targeted support to enhance their reading skills. Teachers actively work to expand pupils' vocabulary through carefully selected reading materials that expose them to diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Pupils display a strong desire to succeed, demonstrating hard work, concentration, and persistence in their learning. They are taught routines and behaviors that contribute to their success, with staff modeling appropriate conduct and responses to challenges. The school's virtues program plays a significant role in developing pupils' character and promoting high standards of behavior.
Personal, social, health, and economic education is highly valued, equipping pupils with knowledge about safety and well-being. Discussions and debates foster respect and tolerance, encouraging pupils to learn about different faiths and cultures. The school provides high-quality careers information from an early age, helping pupils understand various job options and the support available as they transition to upper school.
Leadership at Avanti Park School has driven significant improvements, with many stakeholders acknowledging the positive transformation. The school has managed to enhance standards without overburdening staff, ensuring that educators have the necessary resources and support to excel in their roles.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, the school recognizes the need to continue improving the quality of pupils' written work to better reflect their learning and capabilities. Overall, Avanti Park School is making commendable strides in providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
