William Gilbert Endowed Church of England Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

Pupils flourish at this exceptional school where differences between people are nurtured and valued. One pupil, typical of many, said, 'You can be your own person, everybody is treated equally.'

Pupils are proud to belong to this caring school. They are happy and feel safe.

The Christian ethos of the school supports pupils to develop strong moral values.

The school's vision for excellence permeates throughout the school. Pupils are 'challenged, excited by their learning, and inspired to be lifelong learners'. Pupils' behaviour is exemplary.

This is because they know what is expected of them and they live up to those expectations. They relish the arr...ay of rewards that they receive for following the school rules. Younger pupils love to move their 'tigers' up the rewards chart.

Older pupils are proud to earn team points.

The school has exceptionally high expectations of all pupils to achieve across each area of the curriculum. Pupils thrive academically and in their wider personal development.

They strive to be the very best they can be in all that they do.

Pupils relish the wide range of enrichment experiences on offer. They benefit from an array of extra-curricular activities.

Pupils embrace leadership roles, such as mini leaders and eco committee members.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

The school has a clear and ambitious curriculum. This centres on providing a very high-quality education for its pupils alongside preparing them for life in modern Britain.

The curriculum flows seamlessly from the early years to Year 6. The school also considers what Year 6 pupils will learn in Year 7. This enables pupils to be well prepared for the next stages of their education.

The curriculum sets out the essential knowledge that pupils will learn with precision. The attention to detail given by the school to the order in which pupils learn new topics and concepts is exemplary.

Staff receive effective professional development so that pupils can benefit from expert subject knowledge.

There are highly-consistent approaches to teaching and assessment to plan and support pupils' learning. Carefully-thought-out links enable pupils to recall and build on what they already know. Pupils regularly revisit and consolidate what they learn.

This means pupils can recall complex knowledge well.

Children in the early years get off to a flying start. The activities are purposeful and exciting.

Children learn through stories, singing, rhymes and so much more. They are curious, independent, and happy learners. There are stimulating, precisely-planned activities, so that children can understand and practise new skills and vocabulary.

The school has ensured that reading sits at the very heart of the curriculum. Pupils love to read the diverse range of books that are available from the well-stocked library. They enjoy listening to teachers enthusiastically reading carefully-chosen books at story times.

The curriculum for phonics is clearly set out. Staff are well trained so that they teach this exceptionally well. Children in the Nursery encounter and practise new words frequently.

Children in the Reception class rapidly start putting these sounds together to read words and books. Regular checks ensure that any pupils who need extra support receive it. Older pupils love to read.

Typical comments include, 'I like reading, as it is like dreaming and takes you to a different world.'

Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), follow the same curriculum as their peers. The school provides strong support and advice when required.

Staff know their pupils well. Resources are adapted and extra support given in lessons. As a result, pupils with SEND produce work of a high standard across the curriculum.

The atmosphere around the school, including during breaktimes, is friendly and calm. There are always staff on hand who will listen to any concerns pupils may have. Additional provision at lunchtimes provides a haven of games and conversation for pupils who need it.

The nurture and care for vulnerable pupils is exemplary.

The curriculum to promote pupils' personal development is praiseworthy. Pupils benefit from an exceptional set of experiences, from performing in concerts to visiting Westminster Abbey.

Pupils understand the concepts of democracy, respect and tolerance. They understand that rules are there to keep them safe. Pupils speak with considerable maturity when discussing difference and diversity.

The trust, governors and the school work exceptionally well together to ensure that pupils receive the highest quality of education. Staff appreciate the steps that the school takes to support their workload and well-being.

The school works diligently with parents and carers.

Parents are overwhelmingly positive about the school. Typical comments include, 'The school is superb, I can't think of a better primary school.'

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.