Great Bedwyn CofE Primary School is celebrating an extremely positive SIAMS inspection report, which praises the strength and impact of the school’s Christian vision and its welcoming, nurturing culture.
Inspectors highlighted the Wiltshire school’s ambitious curriculum, describing it as carefully crafted to enable ‘pupils to establish deep roots to grow and wings to fly’, in line with Great Bedwyn’s vision and values.
The report adds that ‘pupils are encouraged to ask “big” questions’ and that ‘a sense of awe and wonder is woven through the fabric of their experiences’, helping to create a sense of magic in everyday learning.
The SIAMS report follows the school’s latest Ofsted inspection in March 2024, when Great Bedwyn was rated Outstanding in every area. Inspectors found that pupils flourish, display immense pride in their school and receive an excellent start to their education.
The latest inspection also recognised the importance of collective worship throughout the school community, describing it as ‘a cherished part of the school day’, where pupils and adults ‘come together to take time to pause, reflect and refresh themselves’.
Inspectors noted that the impact of worship extends beyond the school gates, with pupils thinking deeply about global issues and how others may be feeling.
Strong links with the church and local community were also praised, enriching pupils’ learning and wider experiences. The report highlighted examples including pupils growing and selling produce through a local group and serving lunches to elderly members of the community.
Kindness was recognised as a core theme at Great Bedwyn, ‘woven through daily interactions’, with older pupils supporting younger children and acting as positive role models. Inspectors also commended the school’s ‘myriad’ extra-curricular opportunities, including musical performances, cultural experiences and high-quality school visits.
Michelle Perrett, Principal of Great Bedwyn CofE Primary School, said, “I’m thrilled with this SIAMS report, which recognises our commitment to aspiration, nurture and inclusion across our school. We are a very special community, in which everyone plays an intrinsic part.”
Nick Lewis, CEO of Excalibur Academies Trust, added, “We are proud of Great Bedwyn and all it has achieved, and of the strong sense of community and success it continues to build. We are equally proud to play a part in supporting its ongoing journey.”
