A YATE primary school has been praised for its “harmonious community”, high expectations and children who love learning.
Ofsted visited Abbotswood Primary School, in Kelston Close, in March.
The regulator no longer gives state primary or secondary schools an overall grade.
But it said Abbotswood is maintaining the standards identified at its previous inspection in 2019, when it was found to have ‘outstanding’ pupil personal development and a ‘good’ quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, early years provision, and leadership and management.
Inspector Claire Mirams said: “Everyone is welcomed and nurtured at Abbotswood.
“Pupils love learning and are proud of their school.
“They live by the school’s six ‘respect’ values that include teamwork and perseverance. Pupils understand how these values make their school a harmonious community.
“The school has high expectations for pupils’ academic success. Pupils rise to the challenge and work hard in lessons.”
The inspector said pupils feel safe, know they can always share worries with an adult and are “kind and considerate towards others”, with well-established rules governing behaviour.
Personal development opportunities for the 373 pupils, aged four to 11, remain “excellent”. They are taught to speak with confidence and learn to be responsible citizens, holding charity fundraising events and developing a “thriving” school allotment.
‘Pupils embrace new experiences’
The inspector said: “Personal development is the bedrock of the school’s work. Pupils know how to keep healthy, both physically and mentally.
“Pupils embrace new experiences. These include building robots, learning musical instruments and singing in the school choir.”
Ofsted said the school’s “broad and well-organised” curriculum had been strengthened further since its last inspection, supported by knowledgeable and engaging teaching.
The inspector said: “Ambition is high, including for those with special educational needs or disabilities.”
She said reading is “central to the school’s priorities” and also highlighted writing and physical education.
To improve further, the inspector said teachers need to ensure checks to make sure pupils have understood what they have been taught are precise in all subjects, to address misconceptions and identify pupils who are ready for more demanding work. Teaching needs to be consistently adapted accordingly.
‘Incredibly proud’
Executive head teacher Rob Cockle (pictured above with head of school Sarah Willoughby and Abbotswood pupils) said: “We are incredibly proud that the report recognises Abbotswood as a nurturing, ambitious, and inclusive school, where pupils thrive academically and personally.
“Our children love learning, show real respect for one another, and embrace the many opportunities we offer.
“This reflects the dedication of our staff, the support of our families, and the strength of our whole school community.”