English Bicknor Church of England Primary School, located in Gloucestershire, has recently undergone an inspection on May 16 and 17, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, with specific areas such as behaviour and attitudes receiving an outstanding rating. The quality of education and leadership and management have also been rated as good and outstanding, respectively. This is the first inspection under section five of the Education Act 2005, as the school was previously not inspected.
The school prides itself on placing children and families at the heart of its operations. Parents express positive sentiments, describing the school as small yet full of heart. The core values of trust, compassion, perseverance, and respect are evident throughout the school community. Pupils demonstrate a strong commitment to their education, attending regularly and achieving well due to the high expectations set by the leaders. Staff members serve as excellent role models, fostering exceptional relationships within the school. Pupils are encouraged to be responsible, respectful, and active participants in their school community.
Behaviour and attitudes among pupils are outstanding. From their first day in Reception, children learn to support and care for one another, leading to harmonious interactions and rare disagreements. The school provides a wealth of extracurricular activities, including music, gardening, and sports, which are inclusive and well-attended. The pastoral support offered is commendable, with staff going above and beyond to ensure pupils and their families feel happy and safe, thus ready to learn.
Leaders are dedicated to providing the best education and care for pupils. They work diligently with staff to deliver an ambitious and exciting curriculum that equips pupils with essential knowledge and skills. For instance, in mathematics, pupils are able to apply algebraic strategies and knowledge of shapes effectively. However, leaders acknowledge that the curriculum is not yet fully embedded across all subjects, which affects pupils' ability to gain the necessary knowledge in these areas. Plans are in place to address this issue promptly.
Reading is a priority, with leaders ensuring that all pupils become fluent readers as early as possible. Younger children learn phonics from the start, and staff are well-trained to support early reading development. The school provides reading materials that align with the phonics knowledge of pupils, and additional support is readily available for those who may struggle.
The school's Christian foundation plays a significant role in shaping pupils' spiritual and character development. Pupils exhibit kindness and understanding, demonstrating respect for diverse beliefs and lifestyles. Leaders also offer a variety of experiences beyond the academic curriculum, such as careers week and residential trips, which help prepare pupils for future educational stages and build their confidence.
Staff members express satisfaction with their work environment, appreciating the training and support provided for their professional development and well-being. Governors are actively involved in monitoring the quality of education and care, holding leaders accountable for their performance. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding evident throughout the school. Staff are well-trained to identify and report concerns, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported.
In summary, English Bicknor Church of England Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and personally. The commitment of leaders, staff, and the community contributes to a positive school culture that prioritizes the well-being and development of every child.
