Glowing SIAMS report for 'outstandingly inclusive' All Saints

All Saints Church School in Montacute is an outstandingly inclusive primary where pupils and adults thrive together.

That’s the verdict of inspector Alison Appleyard, who visited the 200-pupil school in November to carry out a Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS).

In her report, she praised the school’s vision and its values of love, wisdom, perseverance, friendship, community and respect.

“The deeply embedded and shared Christian vision runs through strategic and everyday life in the school. It is the lifeblood that enables adults and pupils to thrive,” she wrote.

“In line with the vision, inclusion is a priority and strength of the school. Any barriers to learning or participating are removed and no one is left out.”

The inspector said opportunities were offered to everyone, and obstacles to participation, whether financial, physical or emotional, were overcome, while extra-curricular activities and wraparound care supported families.

“Pupils are given opportunities and experiences which enrich their lives at school whilst teachers are inspired and supported to deliver them. This results in both happy and successful teaching and learning,” the report said.

“All Saints has extensive, beautiful grounds with facilities for outdoor work and play. Forest school, sport, painting, reading and autumn walks inspire pupils to appreciate the amazing world God created.”

The support for service families and for children with special educational needs, and the priority given to adults and children’s mental health and wellbeing needs, within a “deeply embedded culture of respect”,  was noted.

“[Staff] are a closely knit team of friends who care for each other. They also go the extra mile to support families in times of need. Parents appreciate the open door that school leaders offer.”

The inspector said pupils were able to make a positive difference through fundraising for charities such as Children in Need and the local foodbank and she noted that pupil voice was a strength of the school. However, she said children could be given more opportunities to engage with global issues.

All Saints is part of Bath & Wells Academy Trust and the close partnerships with St Catherine’s church, the trust and the Bath & Wells diocese were praised, as was the active involvement of the school’s governors.

Collective worship was said to be the most important part of the school day and was described as “inclusive, invitational and inspirational”.

“The whole school community shares an understanding of spirituality.”

The quality of religious education was good, the inspector said. “RE is well led and well taught with expert training and support from the local diocese …Pupils enjoy RE because it is stimulating and exciting.”

Headteacher Sharon Bowditch welcomed the report.

“We are thrilled with this report, which really captures the essence of our caring, compassionate and creative community. I am so proud of everyone at All Saints who plays their part every day in ensuring our school is a place where every individual can thrive.”