Minehead First School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 21 February 2024

Pupils live up to the school's values such as community, ambition and respect. Relationships between staff and pupils are warm and respectful. The school knows pupils as individuals. Pupils get high-quality pastoral care that helps address a range of needs. This is a caring and inclusive school where all are valued. As a result, pupils enjoy school and attend well. Expectations are high. Most pupils behave well and show positive attitudes in lessons and around the school. Bullying, when it occurs, is dealt with appropriately. Pupils have access to a wide range of extra-curricular activities that develop their talents and interests like archery, football and science clubs. Pupils are proud to take up positions of responsibility such as the sports crew, who support younger pupils in the playground. Pupils' views are represented well through the school council. Older pupils enthusiastically told inspectors about the debating competitions with other schools. Most parents who shared their views are positive about the support their children receive at school. One comment, typical of many, was: 'I have had a fantastic experience with Minehead First School. My children feel safe and have a lovely relationship with staff.'

What the school should improve

• In some subjects and at times in the early years, the school has not identified the essential knowledge it wants pupils to know and remember over time. As a result, pupils do not develop a broad knowledge of the curriculum in these areas. The school and trust must ensure that the precise knowledge they want pupils to learn is identified so that they build on their knowledge over time.

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