Burlescombe Church of England Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school The executive headteacher's unwavering drive and commitment to raising standards has led to rapid positive improvements in the quality of teaching following an unsettled period with many staffing changes.

Consequently, pupils are now making good progress in reading, writing and mathematics. Skilled senior leaders share the executive headteacher's sense of purpose. All are knowledgeable in their specific area of leadership and play their part in raising standards.

Governors are actively involved in the life of the school. They understand and are fully committed to their role in improving the quality of education. They are well informed abo...ut the progress pupils make and hold leaders to account for the standards pupils achieve.

The core values of the school run through all it does. These values are well known and understood by pupils, who talk about trying to live by them every day. Pupils respond to the high standards expected of their behaviour.

During the inspection they were invariably well mannered, polite and considerate. The vibrant curriculum captures the interests of all pupils. Teachers plan imaginative lessons which motivate pupils.

However, their planning does not use assessment information in subjects other than English and mathematics accurately enough for pupils to make rapid progress in these curriculum areas. Teaching, learning and assessment are now good. This is due to systematic and wide-ranging checking by leaders, so that most pupils receive teaching that results in good learning.

Occasionally, some pupils could be given more challenging work. Children in the early years make good progress. This is because staff accurately plan work for their individual needs.

Expectations for children's behaviour and what they can achieve are high. Parents are very positive about the school. They appreciate the individualised care, support and challenge their children receive.

A wide range of sport and extra-curricular activities broadens learning opportunities for pupils.

Information about this school

The school meets requirements on the publication of specified information on its website. The school is part of a federation, The Valley Partnership, alongside Webber's Church of England Primary School.

The school is smaller than average with very small cohorts, including the early years. Some groups may constitute just one individual. The majority of pupils are of White British backgrounds.

The proportion of pupils with support for special educational needs is broadly in line with the national average. The proportion of pupils eligible for pupil premium funding is below the national average. The proportion of pupils whose first language is not believed to be English is well below the national average.