Wool Church of England Primary School, located in Dorset, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy in February 2021. The inspection, conducted on 17 and 18 October 2023, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across all evaluated areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The headteacher, Eleanor Griffiths, leads the school, which is part of The Coastal Learning Partnership, overseen by CEO Paul Howieson and a board of trustees chaired by Louise Ellis.
Pupils at Wool Primary School express enjoyment in attending, highlighting the strong relationships fostered between staff and students. The school community emphasizes that every pupil is valued as special. Parents appreciate the school's communication, safety measures, and its role within the local community. The school maintains high expectations for pupil behaviour, instilling values of faith, perseverance, respect, aspiration, and love. Pupils take pride in their achievements, such as receiving the ‘best seat in the house’ award, and demonstrate good listening skills and cooperation during lessons and playtime, contributing to a calm and purposeful atmosphere.
The school prioritizes pupil safety, with adults readily available to listen to any concerns. Pupils feel supported and recognized for their efforts, particularly during assemblies. The school offers various clubs and extracurricular activities, allowing pupils to take on roles such as school councillors and eco councillors, which fosters a sense of pride and responsibility.
Wool Primary School is ambitious for its pupils, providing a well-structured curriculum that builds knowledge over time. The school has taken proactive measures to enhance areas where outcomes were below national expectations, particularly in reading and mathematics. Reading is emphasized from the start, with pupils learning phonics effectively and reading books that match their skill levels, which boosts their confidence and fluency. The mathematics curriculum is also well-structured, with a focus on developing vocabulary and understanding of numbers from the early years.
However, the inspection identified areas for improvement, particularly in the wider curriculum subjects. Some lessons do not focus precisely enough on the essential knowledge pupils need to acquire, leading to confusion and hindering their progress. For instance, pupils have struggled with the correct techniques in art, which has affected their learning outcomes. The school is encouraged to ensure that learning aligns more closely with the intended curriculum to enhance knowledge retention.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, with staff trained to adapt learning approaches to meet individual needs. Positive attitudes towards learning are evident from the early years, with pupils understanding and following school rules. Attendance is closely monitored, and the school has established effective procedures to promote regular attendance, fostering a strong sense of belonging among pupils.
Wool Primary School also prioritizes personal development, teaching pupils about diverse relationships and the importance of acceptance. Local governors and trustees are actively involved in holding the school accountable, and staff express pride in their work and benefit from collaborative training opportunities. The safeguarding arrangements are deemed effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, the school demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils, making it a positive educational environment.
