A ‘transformational’ village primary school near Bath, whose pupils are ‘shining lights, bringing about positive change for themselves and the world around them’, has been praised in glowing terms by inspectors.
Swainswick Church School was graded ‘Excellent’ by a SIAMS (Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools) inspector earlier this month.
In her report, which praised all aspects of school life, inspector Anna Willcox said, “Being part of this special school community changes lives and equips people to be ‘beacons of light’ well beyond their time there. This is perfectly encapsulated by the words of one child which became part of the school’s vision: ‘The world is big and we are small; but we can do anything, anything at all.’”
Ms Willcox said Swainswick, led by headteacher Grant Swarbooke, has an ‘unshakable’ outward looking ethos.
“Tackling climate change, racism, sexism and other forms of discrimination are some of the key priorities and pupils have the knowledge and drive to make positive changes. Pupils have been successful in establishing a 20 miles per hour speed limit around the school. They are also actively campaigning, alongside members of parliament and local authority representatives, for an electric bus to transport them to school,” she said.
“The unwaveringly dedicated headteacher’s personal vision, of pupils realising ‘the power they have as lights in the world’, drives this endeavour.”
The school was also commended for its friendly and welcoming ethos, as well as for fostering an atmosphere where pupil confidence soars.
The report said, ‘All members of the school community describe Swainswick as a family where everyone knows each other, not just their names. Extremely positive, caring relationships are palpable.
‘Parents say pupils ‘are celebrated for who they are and their own uniqueness’. Staff are well-supported and feel valued as unique individuals. They describe being ‘welcomed with open arms’ and ‘able to be themselves’.
‘Their confidence is carefully nurtured to enable them to follow their dreams and ambitions. Leaders ensure they provide strategically planned opportunities to ‘shine their light’ beyond their immediate small, rural locality. Parents talk animatedly about how pupils’ confidence has increased tenfold since joining Swainswick.’
There was also recognition for the curriculum and extra-curricular activities, which has been designed to support all pupils at the school.
Ms Willcox said, “The curriculum is fully inclusive enabling all pupils, including those with additional needs, to flourish holistically. There is a clear definition of spirituality, understood and embraced by all. A vast range of enrichment activities, planned in response to pupil’s interests, form a key part of wider curriculum planning. These further reflect the vision of nurturing each individual to achieve their potential.”
Religious activity is also a strength at Swainswick, with ‘deeply spiritual, moving acts of collective worship (which) inspire and motivate pupils to action. Poignant times of stillness and reflection are key, providing opportunities for personal spiritual development. The church is used weekly for worship, strengthening this seamless partnership’.
The school also works closely with the Bath and Wells Multi Academy Trust and its own team of governors.
The report said, ‘School leaders are well supported by committed governors and the Trust. Governors monitor the Christian distinctiveness of the school and this work shapes strategic planning for further development. The trust prioritises the centrality of the Christian vision and holds the school to account for ongoing development in this area. Training is provided to continuously develop all staff. Leaders are given opportunities to share exemplary practice with other schools across the trust, reflecting the vision of being a ‘beacon of light on a hill’.’
Mr Swarbooke said, “We are so pleased that the inspector recognised so much of what we hold dear at Swainswick – our desire to foster confident, kind and caring young people who really do make a positive difference both in school and in the wider community. We have a wonderful staff team at Swainswick, supported by our governors and Trust and this report is a testament to the hard work of every one of them.”
Swainswick School is a member of the Bath & Wells Multi Academy Trust. Its chief executive, Nikki Edwards, commented, “This report really does get to the heart of what Swainswick is all about – a welcoming, inspiring school where every pupil is given the chance to shine.”
If you would like to arrange a personal tour of the school for any year group, please call the school office on 01225 859279 or email email hidden; JavaScript is required