St Buryan Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 11 July 2023

Pupils are happy to attend St Buryan Primary School. They greet each other warmly and value their friendships. Leaders focus on pupils knowing each other well through initiatives such as older children fulfilling their roles as reading buddies for younger pupils. Leaders have high expectations for what pupils can achieve, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Pupils rise to meet leaders' expectations. They show highly positive attitudes to learning. This helps them to face challenges with confidence. Pupils' resilience means they are not afraid to 'have a go'. They support each other to always do their best. Pupils are kind and courteous. They look out for others and ensure that everyone feels included. This helps pupils to feel safe and secure. Leaders provide a range of opportunities for pupils to develop their talents and interests. For example, many pupils play sport competitively to a high standard. They know about the importance of good sportsmanship and being respectful to others. Parents describe the school as having a 'strong, caring and community feel'. They appreciate how well staff know pupils' needs. Parents comment positively about the lengths staff go to when providing extra support for their children.

What the school should improve

• Teachers do not use the information they gain from assessment to ensure that all pupils' learning suitably challenges them. As a result, some pupils do not make as much progress as they could. Leaders need to make sure that teachers use assessment to shape learning based on pupils' prior learning and understanding.
• The curriculum in the early years is not as well considered as the curriculum in the rest of the school. Some children do not have enough opportunities to deepen their understanding. The activities in the learning environment do not always promote children's interest and curiosity. This stalls some pupils' progress. Leaders must ensure that the curriculum in the early years is as well considered as it is in the rest of the school. This will ensure that all children build the secure foundations for learning that they need for future learning.

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