Tavistock Infant School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 26 November 2024

As one parent commented, echoing the views of many, 'The overwhelming feel you get from Tavistock is a warm and nurturing environment where the children really matter as individuals.' This is evident from the start of the school day. Teachers greet pupils by name and with a welcoming smile at the classroom door, checking in with parents and carers to see how their child is. Pupils are pleased to see staff and their friends, anticipating an enjoyable day ahead. Reception Year children eagerly explore the range of early morning activities. Older pupils settle quickly to tasks designed to reinforce learning or practise skills. These well-established routines set the scene for positive attitudes and kind behaviour, inside and outside the classroom, throughout the day. Expectations are high, making for calm and purposeful classrooms. Pupils understand that they have both the right to learn undisturbed and the responsibility to make sure others can get on with their work. Pupils are taught good learning habits. They are willing to have a go and keep trying, knowing that it is okay not to get something right first time. Pupils relish their learning across the range of subjects, soaking up new knowledge and remembering important information.

What the school should improve

• The specific focus on improving the learning of pupils who are eligible for pupil premium funding and those with SEND is fairly recent. These pupils have not, in recent years, typically achieved as well as their peers in reading, writing and mathematics. The school should ensure that it implements its plans to enhance provision for these pupils, keeping a close eye on the impact on their progress and making adjustments as needed.

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