A Portishead Primary School is welcoming and friendly and has taken effective action to maintain its good Ofsted grading.
Trinity Anglican-Methodist Primary, which has 412 children on its roll and is led by headteacher Sandy Nickells, succeeds in its mission of ‘aiming higher together’ - a direct result of its ‘engaging curriculum’, the inspector said.
The Ofsted inspector said it was clear pupils enjoy coming to school, with attendance levels high and pupils happily socialising with their peers.
There was also praise for the way the curriculum is delivered effectively.
The inspectors said:” There are regular checks on what pupils know and remember, with lessons adapted to address any gaps in knowledge.
“Throughout the school, there is a strong focus on developing pupils’ language and vocabulary.
“In Nursery, staff routinely introduce children to new words. Children respond well and use these in their own conversations. Children enjoy learning rhymes and songs which help them become familiar with different sounds.
“Older pupils develop increasing confidence in their articulation. For example, pupils explain significant historical events, such as the Roman invasion.”
It was also noted that the school places a strong emphasis on reading from the earliest age.
The inspector added:
- The school supports pupils’ personal development. Staff build positive relationships with parents right from the start of Nursery. This supports children to quickly feel safe and settled.
- Pupils understand the importance of fundamental British values, such as respect. They say that everyone should be treated fairly. This prepares pupils well for life in modern Britain.
- The school accurately identifies the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Staff use their training well to adapt learning for these pupils. Pupils with SEND benefit from the support they receive.
- Pupils learn how to become active citizens through raising money for charity. They work with community members to improve the local environment through litter-picking initiatives.
- Pupils take part in a variety of enrichment activities. They make visits to places of interest. These are carefully planned to support and build on areas of the curriculum. For example, pupils visit the SS Great Britain to deepen their knowledge of history.
- Pupils have many opportunities to develop their leadership skills such as ‘rota kids’ and the mini police. Pupils learn new skills and talents through a range of clubs. These include chess and art club. With online issues an increasing concern for many parents across the UK, the inspection team noted that Trinity children ‘show a secure understanding’ of e-safety.The inspector said: “Older pupils talk with knowledge about reducing screen time to ‘feel calm.’” It was also highlighted that ‘staff benefit from professional networks within the Bath and Wells Multi Academy Trust and beyond. The Trust and the local governing committee provide appropriate challenge and support to the school’.
Sandy said: “Trinity is a happy and friendly school where pupils work hard and enjoy having many enrichment opportunities outside of the classroom. We are so pleased that Ofsted recognized the dedication of the whole staff team in creating an enabling and inspiring environment where children thrive and demonstrate our school values together day-by-day. I am certain this will be a springboard for the school growing even further in years to come.”