Following an inspection in November 2022, St Mary’s CE Primary School has received a ‘Good’ Ofsted rating, having previously been rated as Requires Improvement.
This report follows that of nearby St George’s CE Primary School, who last week were rated Good, improving impressively from a previous Requires Improvement rating. Both schools have seen this improvement under the leadership by Principal Candida Hutchinson, who also oversees Seend Primary School in the local area.
All of the schools are members of the White Horse Federation trust.
Inspectors described the Broughon Gifford school as ‘a welcoming village primary school which is at the heart of the community. Pupils enjoy attending school. They say it is like a ‘big family.’ Pupils are polite and kind towards one another. They are adamant that bullying is rare. Relationships between adults and pupils are respectful. Pupils feel safe and know that adults are there to help.’
They further commended staff on their ambition for ‘all pupils, including those with special needs and/or disabilities (SEND). They have a vision that is understood by all. With support from the trust, leaders have focused on improving the quality of education.’
‘Leaders and staff accurately identify pupils with SEND. Leaders regularly check the support pupils with SEND receive to make sure it is effective. Detailed plans are in place to ensure their needs are well met. For example, pupils have a range of apparatus in mathematics to support them to succeed with their learning. Pupils with SEND access the same curriculum as their peers.’
Congratulations were also awarded to St Mary’s ‘well-designed’ curriculum:
‘Pupils learn through a well-designed and considered curriculum. It ensures that they build on what they already know. Pupils use what they have previously learned to be successful and challenged. For example, they use their understanding of number to calculate the value of missing angles correctly. The strong focus on using mathematics vocabulary ensures that pupils explain the methods they use accurately. Teachers use assessment information well to make adaptations to future learning.’
Candida Hutchinson, School Principal, said, “We are extremely proud of all of our staff and students for their amazing achievements. Having our hard work recognised by Ofsted is undeniably rewarding and we will continue to progress in the right direction.”
“I’d also like to thank our parents and carers for continuing to provide amazing support! It does not go unrecognised.”