Pennoweth Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 4 May 2022

Pupils at Pennoweth School model the school's 'DNA' in everything they do. They are respectful, kind and considerate towards others. When walking around the school, they greet each other and adults warmly, open doors for each other and display good manners. Staff know pupils well and nurture their interests and needs. Pupils say that bullying is rare and they trust adults to help them if they have a concern. One response to the online survey, Ofsted Parent View, reflected those of many, by saying 'Pennoweth is a family more than it is a school.' Leaders have very high expectations for pupils and, for the most part, these are achieved. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are carefully supported with their individual needs. Therefore, these pupils learn well with their peers and thrive. Pupils value the range of extra-curricular opportunities the school provides and many attend at least one school club. The gardening club provides the school with vegetables the pupils have grown. From Year 2, pupils have the opportunity to take part in a school camp and some pupils recently 'slept with sharks'.

What the school should improve

• In some subjects, leaders have not sequenced the curriculum carefully enough for mixed-age classes. This means that some pupils do not have the prior knowledge they need to learn something more difficult. Leaders need to ensure that the curriculum is broken down into smaller steps of learning in all subjects.
• In some subjects, the use of assessment in lessons is not consistent. This means that a small number of pupils do not get the help they need and so do not know as much as they could. Leaders should ensure that the use of assessment in lessons is implemented consistently, so that all pupils remember more over time.

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