Othery Village School, located in Bridgwater, Somerset, has recently undergone an inspection on January 24 and 25, 2024, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The headteacher, Lindsay Hayward, leads the school, which is part of the Preston Primary Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Bernie Green and a board of trustees chaired by Mike Kerrigan.
Pupils express enjoyment in attending Othery Village School, highlighting that it is a place where they feel they have a voice. The relationships between adults and pupils are characterized by respect and positivity, contributing to a safe environment where pupils feel comfortable sharing their concerns. High expectations are set for all pupils, starting from Reception Year, where established routines help children respond positively. Pupils take pride in their work and are eager to showcase their achievements. The school offers a broad and balanced curriculum, although some areas are still in development.
The school promotes its vision of honesty, respect, and trust, which is evident in the harmonious interactions among pupils. They play well together during social times, making breaks enjoyable. Leadership opportunities, such as roles for eco-warriors and house captains, are embraced by pupils, who understand the importance of fundamental British values and are motivated to contribute positively to their school community.
Othery Village School has ambitious goals for all pupils, having stabilized after a challenging period. The curriculum is designed to be ambitious, beginning with effective communication and positive attitudes to learning in Reception Year. Reading is prioritized, with older pupils enjoying a diverse range of literature. The early years curriculum emphasizes storytelling, fostering a love for reading from the outset. Phonics instruction is effective, enabling pupils to read fluently, and those who struggle receive necessary support to catch up.
The school has clearly identified learning objectives across subjects in line with the national curriculum. In some areas, the curriculum outlines specific knowledge steps, aiding pupils in building on prior learning. For instance, in mathematics, pupils practice number facts, enhancing their reasoning skills. Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is effective, allowing them to access the same curriculum as their peers and progress well.
However, there are areas for improvement. In some subjects, the learning steps do not consistently identify key knowledge, hindering pupils' ability to build on prior learning and deepen their understanding. For example, while pupils write extensively in English, the specific elements needed for successful writing are not clearly defined. Additionally, assessment practices in some subjects are not effective, leading to gaps in knowledge. The trust is encouraged to ensure that assessments accurately reflect what pupils know and can do, allowing for curriculum adaptations to address these gaps.
The school maintains high attendance expectations, with a robust monitoring system in place to address any declines swiftly. The curriculum also supports pupils' wider development, preparing them for life beyond Othery. Pupils demonstrate an understanding of diversity, tolerance, and acceptance, recognizing the importance of inclusivity. Their understanding of relationships and consent is commendable, reflecting a mature approach. Opportunities for community contribution, such as fundraising and performances, are valued by pupils.
The safeguarding arrangements at Othery Village School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, the school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory, with a commitment to enhancing the educational experience for all its pupils.
