Silverton Church of England Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 25 March 2025

Expectations are high at this rapidly improving school. Children make a flying start when they arrive in Nursery. Pupils go on to achieve well, particularly by the end of key stage 2. Staff know pupils individually. They look to link learning to pupil's interests and build on what they already know, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Pupils enjoy the things they are taught. For example, they talk enthusiastically about learning to read, historical themes and the useful trips they experience. Disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND learn alongside and as well as their peers, including in the early years. Pupils learn, for example, about cultures and beliefs around the world, as well as how to read, write and do mathematics. As a result, pupils are well prepared to continue their education when they move on to secondary school. Leaders and staff want the best for pupils. Pupils generally respond positively. Occasionally, some pupils need reminding to do their best. Some also worry about poorer behaviour from the past. However, they also rightly recognise that things have changed. Pupils share breaktimes joyfully, often sorting any problems together without help. Pupils' attitudes to learning improve, especially as they get older.

What the school should improve

• Sometimes, the activities teachers plan are not well enough matched to the intended learning or adapted sufficiently for some pupils with SEND. This means that, occasionally, pupils do not build on what they already know or can do. The school should ensure that teachers plan activities adapted more closely to what they want pupils to learn so pupils' achievement, including those with SEND, is more consistent.
• The school's approaches to teaching writing do not ensure that pupils have the transcription skills needed to write fluently. This means pupils can find it difficult to complete more complex writing tasks because they still have to focus on their handwriting or spelling. The school should ensure that staff teach transcription skills consistently and effectively.
• The school's engagement with parents and carers, although improving, has had varied results. This means some parents are less confident about the school's work and how it is improving provision for their children. The school should strengthen how it engages with parents to ensure that parents are clear about how the school is managed, what changes are being made and the impact of leaders' work on their children's outcomes.

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