Morchard Bishop Church of England Primary School has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 6, 2023. The school fosters a strong sense of community and belonging among its pupils, who actively participate in shaping the school’s values. They demonstrate a commitment to qualities such as empathy and resilience, which are integral to the school’s ethos. The pre-school environment is structured with well-established routines that prepare children for their transition into the Reception class, promoting curiosity and resilience from an early age.
Pupils exhibit good behavior throughout the school, allowing them to concentrate on their learning. Older students are aware of the rising expectations and are quick to identify any lapses in behavior. However, there are instances where both pupils and parents feel that staff could enforce standards of conduct more firmly. The school offers a wide array of sporting and adventurous activities, along with various clubs such as gardening, art, and construction, which pupils engage in enthusiastically.
In the past year, school leaders have made significant strides in enhancing the curriculum, particularly in early reading and mathematics. Staff confidence in utilizing new teaching plans and resources is on the rise, supported by trust leaders who have helped develop the wider curriculum. Subjects like physical education have become a strength, with specialists collaborating with school staff to deepen pupils' subject knowledge. The early reading curriculum has positively impacted pupils in Reception and key stage one, with effective support in place for those who struggle with reading.
A key focus for school leaders has been to improve mathematics instruction. Pupils are now revisiting their learning more frequently, which aids retention. Leaders emphasize the importance of developing mathematical language and encourage pupils to articulate their reasoning. They recognize the need to continue enhancing teachers' subject knowledge to better support pupils' learning.
In the pre-school, children are introduced to songs and routines that they will encounter in Reception, ensuring a smooth transition. There is a consistent emphasis on language development, providing ample opportunities for pupils to discuss books, which helps them start their literacy journey effectively. Leaders are proactive in identifying children who may need additional support with speech and language development.
Despite these positive developments, some parents have expressed concerns regarding the support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. This stems from a perceived lack of collaboration between leaders and parents, which can lead to misunderstandings about how best to meet these pupils' needs. While pupils with SEND generally participate well in the curriculum and receive adequate support, there are occasions when the planned support does not meet expectations.
The school’s ethos is reflected in the respectful attitudes of its pupils, who embrace diversity and take on leadership roles within the school community. Staff feel valued and supported by school leaders, who are committed to further developing the school. The leadership team, including local governors and trust leaders, is well-informed about the school and provides constructive challenges to ensure continuous improvement.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with vigilant staff who promptly address any concerns. Leaders ensure that all necessary checks regarding staff suitability are completed and documented. Regular updates are provided to parents to promote the safety and well-being of pupils, both online and in the community. Overall, Morchard Bishop Church of England Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and supportive environment for its pupils, with ongoing efforts to enhance educational quality and community engagement.
