West Dean CofE Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school Led by the driven and ambitious headteacher, this small school provides pupils with big opportunities.

The curriculum and the range of trips, visits and clubs are key strengths of the school. Staff at all levels are ambitious for pupils and have high expectations of their behaviour and attitudes. Staff guide pupils to be the best they can be.

Pupils respond accordingly, showing great respect and working hard in lessons. Pupils' behaviour is outstanding. Leaders and governors work closely to evaluate the effectiveness of the school and identify areas for improvement.

However, plans for development are not sufficiently focused on w...hat success will look like or when it will be achieved. This makes it difficult for leaders and governors to evaluate their efforts. Staff skilfully guide pupils to write well and to apply their understanding of grammar, spelling and punctuation.

Most pupils write at the expected standard. However, few pupils write at a high standard. Pupils possess secure and well-rehearsed methods for calculation which they use to solve a range of problems.

Their ability to reason is not as secure. This prevents pupils from attaining at a high standard in mathematics. In the early years, children make an excellent start to their formal education.

First-class teaching and relationships ensure that children are exceptionally well prepared for the challenges of Year 1. In most subjects, standards are very high. However, there are some small inconsistencies in the quality of teaching – particularly in the foundation subjects – which leaders are working hard to address.

The needs of disadvantaged pupils are clearly understood and identified early on. Staff use a range of creative and bespoke approaches to support these pupils to make strong progress. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are supported by dedicated support and teaching staff.

These pupils do well because their learning and work are closely matched to their needs.

Information about this school

This school is smaller than the average-sized primary school. Many pupils are taught in mixed-age classes.

All teaching staff undertake leadership and improvement roles in the school. The proportion of pupils who are supported by the pupil premium is lower than the national average. The proportion of pupils with SEND is slightly higher than the national average.

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