Whixall CofE Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school. Pupils at this school make good progress and achieve well.

Attainment in all subjects has improved significantly since the previous inspection as a result of a clear drive for excellence in teaching. Teaching is now consistently good; some is outstanding. Accurate use of assessment helps pupils know what to do to improve their work.

Teaching assistants work well with pupils so that good progress is made. Lessons reflect the needs of the individual and help disabled pupils and those who have special educational needs make good progress. The school gives effective support and care.

The outstanding behaviour of pupils is an importa...nt contributory factor to the good pace of learning. A wide range of stimulating and enriching experiences outside of the classroom promotes pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development extremely well. Leaders, governors and teachers have a clear and accurate understanding of what they do well and what areas need to develop.

The headteacher keeps a careful check on the quality of teaching and improves it by modelling outstanding practice. It is not yet an outstanding school because : There is not enough outstanding teaching. Some teachers do not create enough opportunities for more-able pupils to become more independent.

Teachers' questioning does not always help pupils to deepen their understanding. The school does not make enough use of outstanding teaching practice to improve the quality of teaching. Staff with responsibilities have not had enough opportunity to develop their leadership skills.

Information about this school

This school is much smaller than the average-sized primary school. Almost all pupils are White British. There is a Nursery on site, but this is not under the control of the school.

The proportion of pupils known to be eligible for the pupil premium (extra funding provided for pupils known to be eligible for free school meals) is below average. The proportion of disabled pupils and those who have special educational needs supported through school action is below the national average. The proportion supported at school action plus or who have a statement of special educational needs is average.

All pupils are educated on site. The school does not use alternative provision to support any of its pupils. The school meets the government's current floor standards, which set minimum expectations for pupils' attainment and progress.