Small school near Cirencester rated Good by Ofsted

Sapperton Primary School was rated Good in all areas, from the quality of education to leadership and management.

The inspection was undertaken on July 10 and 11, and the school has been given an overall Good rating.

“Pupils at Sapperton Primary School are reminded to be the ‘best version of you’ in all areas of school life,” the inspection report said.

“As a result, pupils are kind and respectful to each other.

“They show positive attitudes towards their work and attend school well.”

The report added that students are involved in improving the school, with a school council giving pupils a voice they can use to share their ideas and opinions.

“Older pupils act as positive role models, for example leading fundraising events at the summer fete or reading to younger pupils,” it continued.

“Children enjoy representing the school in sporting competitions, such as athletics and team games.”

The report added: “Pupils develop their talents and interests well.

“Singing, music and drama performances bring the whole school together.

“Clubs such as arts and crafts, chess and rounders allow pupils to try something new.

“The curriculum is made more memorable through guest speakers and trips, for example learning about the geography of the local area.”

Discussing things the school needs to do better, the report said: “Not all subjects have set out the most important knowledge that pupils will learn.

“In these subjects, pupils do not have the same confidence when talking about what they know and remember.

“Assessments are used to formally check pupils’ knowledge and understanding.

“However, between these assessments, there is insufficient checking of what pupils understand or remember.”

Despite this, the report said that leaders have recently revised how students who are not making anticipated progress with reading and spelling are supported.

“The new leadership and those responsible for governance have quickly identified the strengths and areas of development for the school,” it added.

“They have sought the support of the local authority and other organisations, such as the local network of English teachers.

“Leaders have taken swift action to make improvements while being mindful of staff’s workload and wellbeing.”

58 students are recorded as being on the school roll in the report, with Ofsted noting that the school has recently changed to offer three mixed-age-group classes.

Senior leaders Gary Price, executive headteacher, and Meg Crampton, deputy headteacher, are delighted with the report.

“It is a testament to the hard work and commitment of the staff, governors and the community,” they said.

Gary added: “As a small village school, there is a strong family feel and a real sense of community, and it is great that the report bears this out.

“We found the whole inspection process a very positive experience.

“As expected, the inspectors were rigorous, but they were fair, and they were keen to hear our narrative.

“It is wonderful to have the acknowledgement from Ofsted that Sapperton is firmly a Good school.”

Ofsted said on its reports website that from September, it is no longer making an overall effectiveness judgement in inspections of state-funded schools.