Two Rivers Church of England Primary School, located in Keynsham, Bristol, has recently undergone its first inspection since opening as an academy free school in September 2020. The inspection, conducted on June 14 and 15, 2023, resulted in an outstanding overall effectiveness rating across all key areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school is part of The Futura Learning Partnership and has a religious character under the Diocese of Bath and Wells.
Pupils at Two Rivers Primary School thrive in a supportive and respectful environment. They express that the school is welcoming, where kindness is a core value. The staff fosters an atmosphere that encourages students to take risks and try new things, leading to exceptional achievements for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The high expectations set by adults are consistently met by the students, who demonstrate exemplary behavior both in and out of the classroom. This positive behavior contributes to a calm and focused learning environment, starting from the early years where children exhibit independence and thoughtfulness.
The relationships between staff and pupils are characterized by warmth and respect. Pupils are aware of the school's conflict resolution strategies, such as the friendship mending charter, which helps them navigate interpersonal issues. They feel comfortable approaching adults with any concerns, knowing they will be listened to and supported. The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including cricket, art, and computing, which pupils enjoy. Opportunities to take on leadership roles, such as eco councillors and members of the school council, empower students and make them feel integral to the school's development.
The leadership team at Two Rivers Primary School is highly ambitious for every pupil. They have meticulously designed a curriculum that meets the needs of students from the early years onward. Teachers are supported in developing their subject expertise, ensuring effective delivery of the curriculum. Regular assessments allow teachers to adapt learning based on pupils' understanding, helping them retain essential knowledge for more complex tasks. For instance, in computing, Year 1 pupils learn to create simple programs, which they build upon in Year 2 by developing electronic quizzes.
Reading is prioritized, with pupils engaging with a variety of texts that enhance their fluency and comprehension. Phonics instruction begins as soon as children start school, with staff receiving training to deliver the phonics program effectively. This systematic approach helps pupils gain confidence in their reading abilities. The mathematics curriculum is equally ambitious, with teachers breaking down concepts into manageable steps and modeling vocabulary effectively. This foundational knowledge supports pupils as they progress to more complex mathematical problems.
Leaders are committed to the success of pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they receive tailored support while accessing the same ambitious curriculum as their peers. The school promotes a culture of respect and eagerness to learn, with pupils quickly adapting to school routines and demonstrating high levels of respect for one another and staff.
The school also emphasizes the broader development of pupils, providing numerous opportunities that align with its values. Pupils learn the importance of friendship, tolerance, and equality, and engage in community service activities, fostering a sense of pride and responsibility. The governance of the school is robust, with trustees and governors holding leaders accountable and supporting staff in their professional development. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, ensuring that all staff are trained to recognize and respond to potential risks, thereby creating a safe environment for all students. Overall, Two Rivers Church of England Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, fostering a nurturing and ambitious atmosphere for its pupils.
