Ecchinswell and Sydmonton Church of England Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 23 May 2023

This is a highly inclusive school. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are particularly well included, as staff understand their specific needs. Staff place great emphasis on knowing every child well. This is recognised by pupils, who say that they feel valued by their teachers and that they know everyone in the school. Pupils comment on the uniqueness of each other. They feel this helps to contribute to the vibrancy of their school. Pupils have positive relationships with each other and staff. As a result of this, pupils feel happy and safe. These relationships develop from the early years. Pupils show consideration for one another in classrooms and on the playground. They understand the importance of the STAR values of 'stickability, teamwork, aiming high and resilience'. They strive to achieve these in all they do. The curriculum is well designed to meet the needs of pupils in mixed-age classes. Pupils learn well because teachers present information clearly. This helps pupils to understand key content. Pupils are enthusiastic about their school. They enjoy reading and love the vast range of books in their library. They know these books have been especially chosen to reflect their varied interests.

What the school should improve

• In a few subjects, the intended curriculum is not always implemented in line with leaders' expectations. This means that teachers do not always focus on the most important information that pupils must remember, and there are small gaps in pupils' knowledge. Leaders must ensure that the specific content that must be covered is understood by all staff.
• In the early years, adults do not always extend children's understanding of key concepts through targeted interactions. This means that children are not consistently exposed to a broad, rich vocabulary. Leaders need to continue to ensure that staff in early years have the skills needed to intervene effectively during learning activities.

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