St Mellion Church of England Primary School, located in Cornwall, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 4, 2023. The school fosters a vibrant and positive environment where pupils take pride in their education and experiences. The ethos of the school is underpinned by the ‘Parable of the Talents’ and the ‘Bring it!’ vision, which emphasizes the commitment of leaders to provide the best for their pupils in both academic and personal development. Pupils appreciate the dedication of the staff, which contributes to their overall positive experience.
The school offers a rich and adventurous curriculum that provides pupils with numerous opportunities to enhance their learning. This curriculum is designed to promote respect for others, independence, and self-awareness, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their future educational journeys. High expectations are set for pupils, who understand and respect these standards. Staff model these expectations effectively, leading to good behavior and positive attitudes towards learning. The school community operates like a family, with pupils supporting one another in both play and learning.
Leaders have developed an ambitious curriculum that caters to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The early years foundation stage is particularly strong, providing a secure foundation for children in Nursery and Reception. The outdoor nursery has been a successful addition, and the learning spaces in Class 1 have been creatively designed to foster confidence and curiosity among children. Staff focus on enhancing pupils' language and vocabulary, which continues into the older classes.
Teachers possess secure subject knowledge and receive ongoing training to stay updated with curriculum developments. However, there are areas within the wider curriculum that require further embedding to ensure consistency in learning. While pupils can recall facts, they sometimes struggle to make connections across different subjects, which limits their understanding.
The school prioritizes reading, with a structured phonics program that begins in Nursery. Regular phonics and reading lessons help pupils develop their reading skills, and additional support is provided for those who struggle. This focus on reading contributes to pupils becoming confident and fluent readers.
The wider development of pupils is a notable strength of the school, with effective partnerships with other schools enhancing learning opportunities. Pupils gain a solid understanding of fundamental British values and learn to manage their emotions with appropriate support. The school community is accepting and recognizes the importance of this support for their peers.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors understanding their roles and ensuring that leaders' actions positively impact pupils. They are sensitive to staff well-being while pursuing school improvement priorities. Safeguarding measures are effective, with a strong culture of safety and up-to-date training for staff.
Despite the school's strengths, there are areas for improvement. The wider curriculum needs to be more embedded, and leaders must ensure that the support for pupils with special educational needs is more tailored to their specific needs. By focusing on these areas, the school can continue to enhance its educational offerings and ensure that all pupils achieve their best outcomes. Overall, St Mellion Church of England Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong commitment to the development and well-being of its pupils.
