Dordon Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 6 February 2024

Pupils attend Dordon Primary School happily. They enjoy all the school has to offer. The single-word rule of 'respect' is understood well by pupils and underpins everything the school does. This is clear in the respect pupils show to each other and adults in school. Relationships between staff and pupils are highly positive. Pupils are well cared for, nurtured and encouraged to be the best they can be. There are clear routines in place to guide pupils' behaviour and keep them safe. Children enter the Reception class from a variety of other settings and settle quickly. Pupils say that behaviour is usually good. If they do have any concerns, they know they can speak to a trusted adult. They are confident that staff will deal with problems promptly. Pupils say they enjoy their lessons. The school recognises that pupils particularly enjoy learning that involves them in investigations. This is one of the ways in which pupils are supported to remember important information and make links in their learning. The school has high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Pupils understand these expectations and respond by working hard in lessons.

What the school should improve

• Some pupils are absent from school too often. This means they miss out on important learning and the many opportunities available to pupils who attend regularly. The school should continue to take appropriate action, including working closely with families, to support all pupils to attend school regularly.
• The school has not ensured that pupils' understanding of fundamental British values is secure enough. This means pupils are not being prepared for life in modern Britain as well as they might. The school should ensure that opportunities to develop pupils' understanding of British values are purposefully planned and delivered throughout the curriculum and understood by all pupils.
• Some subject leaders have not had the opportunity to check how well the intended curriculum is being implemented in their area of responsibility. This means they are unaware of whether the curriculum is effective in helping pupils learn and gain knowledge. The school should ensure regular checks are made in all curriculum areas so they understand if the intended curriculum is being delivered to a high standard, resulting in pupils knowing and remembering more.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)