Southwold Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school The new headteacher, ably supported by the senior leadership team, has successfully ensured that the school's values are understood by all. Leaders and staff have successfully secured improvements in teaching and learning. The White Horse Federation (the trust) has provided effective support to leaders which has assisted them well in improving the school.

Trust members have an accurate overview of the school's performance. They make good use of this to hold leaders stringently to account. English and mathematics subject leaders are developing their expertise well and receive effective training.

Leadership in other subjects is less well de...veloped, especially leaders' oversight of how well pupils are learning. Teaching across the school is characterised by effective questioning. Teachers respond well to pupils' misconceptions.

However, teachers' expectations of pupils' writing and presentation are not always consistently high. Strong practice in assessment in mathematics and English enables pupils to build effectively on their prior knowledge and understanding. The curriculum and assessment in subjects other than English and mathematics do not always provide enough challenge, especially for the most able.

Current pupils make good progress from their starting points in English and mathematics, which is leading to better attainment. However, some most-able pupils do not always make the strong progress of which they are capable in mathematics. Leadership and teaching in the early years are good.

Children make a smooth start to their learning and are well prepared for the demands of Year 1. Pupils behave well. They are responsible and care for each other, taking an active role in developing the school.

The personal development of pupils is also strong. Pupils who spoke with inspectors confirmed that they feel safe from bullying. When it does arise, they know that staff will deal with it effectively.

Most parents are full of praise leaders' work. However, some parents have been concerned about recent staff changes and some aspects of behaviour. Leaders are continuing to strengthen communication with parents.

Pupils' additional needs are quickly identified. Disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) make good progress from their individual starting points.

Information about this school

Southwold County Primary School is an average-sized school.

It has recently seen a decline in numbers on role. At the time of the inspection the school had two mixed nursery and reception classes, three key stage one classes and six key stage two classes. Most pupils are White British.

An average number of pupils speak English as an additional language. The proportion of pupils known to be eligible for support through the pupil premium is below national averages. The proportion of pupils with SEND is in line with national averages.

Southwold formally joined the White Horse Federation multi academy trust in April 2016. Directors of the trust are the appropriate authority and have delegated some responsibilities to the local governing body. Following a period of turbulence, a new headteacher was appointed in September 2018.

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