St Andrew’s Church School, Bath, has been praised by an inspector for its lively, diverse and inclusive atmosphere.
The school bases its vision on “life in all its fullness” from John’s gospel: creating an environment where each child can thrive, grow, and flourish – spiritually, emotionally, and intellectually.
And Simon Stevens, who made a SIAMS (Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools) visit in May, concluded that the school – part of Bath & Wells Multi Academy Trust – is doing just that.
“St Andrew’s School is living up to its foundation as a Church school and is enabling pupils and adults to flourish,” his report said.
His many positive comments included:
- “Staff are tireless in their commitment to inclusion. This is most evident in how quickly newly arrived pupils and families develop a deep sense of belonging.
- “Staff have high expectations of pupils, who respond by having high expectations of themselves.
- “The vision and the values inspire pupils and adults to show mutual respect.
- “Concern for wellbeing for both pupils and staff is at the heart of St Andrew’s.”
Mr Stevens praised the way children were encouraged to discover and develop their strengths through an extensive range of enriching opportunities, including music and performance.
He also noted that pupils had a voice in the way the 242-pupil school was run and took on responsibilities, including leading collective worship.
“Collective worship contributes much to the spiritual growth of pupils and adults. The inclusive atmosphere helps those attending feel safe and cherished. The vision and termly values are fully investigated through scripture, song, prayer and reflection,” the report said.
The teaching of religious education was also found to be a strength.
“Religious education (RE) is taught engagingly. Pupils learn well and display good skills in debate and discussion. “
The school was said to benefit from support from the trust and diocese. “The RE curriculum is highly appropriate for this diverse school with a good balance of Christianity and religious worldviews. The carefully shaped curriculum covers the major world religions, big questions and the impact of faith. “
The next steps, Mr Stevens said, would be to embed non-religious views in the RE curriculum and to make the language of and opportunities for spirituality in the school more explicit.
Executive headteacher Naomi Boyce said staff, pupils, families, governors, and trust colleagues had all played their part during the SIAMS inspections.
“We are all thrilled with the outcome and feel the inspector really captured what is at the heart of St Andrew’s,” she said.
“I am hugely proud of this highly positive report and want to thank every member of our wonderfully supportive school community.”