Great Bedwyn CofE Primary School celebrates glowing SIAMS inspection report

Great Bedwyn CofE Primary School was rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in 2024 and a recent Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) inspection confirms that the school well deserves this rating.

The SIAMS inspection report highlights the strength and impact of the school’s Christian vision. Inspectors praised Great Bedwyn’s curriculum, describing it as “carefully crafted to reflect the school’s vision to establish deep roots to grow and wings to fly. Pupils are encouraged to ask ‘big’ questions. A sense of awe and wonder is woven through the fabric of their experiences.”

Inspectors found that pupils are given many “opportunities to discover and develop their talents through a comprehensive enrichment programme which contributes significantly to their personal growth.” Examples noted were musical performances, cultural experiences and high-quality school visits.”

The inspection recognised the importance of collective worship throughout the school community, describing it as “a cherished part of the school day. Pupils and adults come together to take time to pause, reflect and refresh themselves.”

A strong sense of justice is instilled in pupils.  “Pupils are encouraged to look beyond themselves and respond to unfairness wherever they see it… Where they see injustice in the world, they feel empowered to make a small, yet significant intervention. Great Bedwyn supplies a platform for pupils to achieve this. Consequently, pupils see themselves as responsible members of a wider world.”

On a local level, the links with the church and community are strong, enriching pupils’ learning and wider experiences, and “exemplified by pupils growing and selling produce through a local group and serving lunches to the elderly.”

On a school level, Great Bedwyn was praised for kindness – a “core theme that is woven through daily interactions. This is evident in the way that people care for one another. An example of this is how the older pupils support the youngest, acting as positive role models.”

“The school vision of ‘roots to grow and wings to fly’ is all-encompassing. It demonstrates an ambition to nurture and provide aspiration for all.”

Michelle Perrett, Principal of Great Bedwyn CofE Primary School, commented, “I’m thrilled with this SIAMS report which recognises our commitment to aspiration, nurture and inclusion across our school. We are a very special community in which everyone plays an intrinsic part.”

Nick Lewis, CEO of Excalibur Academies Trust, concluded, “We are proud of Great Bedwyn and all it has achieved and of the strong sense of community and success it continues to build. We are equally proud to play a part in supporting its ongoing journey.”

To read the report in full click here.