Finmere Church of England Primary School, located in Buckinghamshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 25, 2024. The headteacher, Clare Law, leads the school, which is part of The Warriner Multi Academy Trust. This trust is overseen by CEO Annabel Kay and a board of trustees chaired by Duncan Raper. The school prides itself on its small size, which fosters a close-knit community where values such as kindness, honesty, and perseverance are emphasized. These values are well-known among students, staff, and parents, contributing to a supportive environment that helps children thrive.
The school is committed to high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Students enjoy their lessons and are motivated to meet the school's academic standards. Most pupils perform well across various subjects, benefiting from opportunities beyond the classroom, such as trips to a trust farm and excursions to London. The positive attitudes of pupils towards school and each other are evident in their behavior, which is generally good. The structured routines in classrooms and social areas create a safe and orderly environment, with staff actively promoting a culture of respect and support.
The curriculum at Finmere is ambitious and designed to build complexity as students progress through key stages. Leaders have clearly identified the key knowledge and vocabulary that pupils should learn, starting from early years. Engaging questions encourage students to connect ideas and develop critical thinking skills. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and employ effective teaching techniques, enabling most pupils to complete tasks independently. In mathematics, clear routines help students tackle interesting problems, while resources in early years support learning effectively.
Despite the school's strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some teachers do not consistently check pupils' understanding, leading to gaps in knowledge that may not be addressed before introducing new material. The school acknowledges this issue and is implementing additional support and training to enhance teachers' ability to assess what pupils know and can do before progressing in their learning.
Reading is a significant focus at Finmere, with younger children starting phonics as soon as they join the school. Staff are trained to effectively teach and embed the reading scheme, ensuring that pupils read daily and develop fluency. Adults closely monitor each child's progress, providing timely support for those who may struggle.
The school maintains high expectations for attendance and behavior, which are communicated regularly to the school community. Leaders track attendance closely, resulting in strong attendance rates. Pupils are encouraged to resolve conflicts through communication, fostering a culture of kindness and support among students. During playtime, pupils engage in cooperative play, and older students take on responsibilities by assisting younger peers.
Finmere Church of England Primary School offers numerous opportunities for pupils to learn about healthy relationships and personal safety. Initiatives like Safer Internet Day educate students on making safe choices. Collective worship is an integral part of the school's ethos, with pupils actively participating and engaging with its messages.
The trust prioritizes staff well-being and workload in decision-making processes related to school improvement. This collaborative approach ensures that the school continues to enhance the quality of education provided to its pupils. Overall, Finmere Church of England Primary School remains a good school, with a strong commitment to fostering a positive learning environment and supporting the development of all its students.
