OFSTED inspectors visited Great Bedwyn CofE Primary School in March and carried out a full inspection. The school was graded OUTSTANDING in all areas and described as giving pupils “an excellent start to their education. Pupils display immense pride in being a part of this school community. They eagerly talk about their learning. The school provides pupils with the ‘roots to grow’ from the moment they start. Pupils thrive as they develop ‘wings to fly’ and leave the school well equipped for the challenges of secondary education.”
Michelle Perrett, Principal at Great Bedwyn C of E Primary School commented, “I couldn’t be prouder of the outcome of this Ofsted report, which is down to the hard work and attitude of every single member of our school community. I would like to thank my amazing staff team in particular for their ongoing support in making Great Bedwyn such a special and nurturing place.”
Great Bedwyn’s 197 pupils enjoy an “ambitious curriculum” which “meets the needs of all pupils well”. Its “subject content is broken down into small steps” which is then developed year on year with “regular opportunities for pupils to recap on previous learning.” This carves a path for students to retain “knowledge impressively over the long term…The school has created a culture where pupils are resilient and take risks. Mistakes are seen as valuable learning opportunities.”
The OFSTED inspectors found that pupils “show a thirst for learning. This begins as soon as they start school. Pupils’ behaviour is exemplary. Pupils feel safe. They play happily and harmoniously together at social times. They are focused and respectful. Pupils are polite to each other and to visitors. They celebrate difference and oppose any form of discrimination.”
The school also offers an outstanding programme for personal development and extra-curricular activities. “Pupils make a tangible difference to the lives of others, for example, by serving lunch to local elderly residents. Pupils make a difference to the world around them. They wrote to the local Member of Parliament (MP) about sewage in a local river to highlight the issue. The MP visited the school to find out further details from the pupils to tackle the problem.”
Nicky Edmondson, CEO of Excalibur Academies Trust, commented, “We are delighted with this inspection report which recognises Great Bedwyn’s ambition and drive to provide an exceptional and unique learning environment, aligning with the Trust’s vision of providing an excellent education for all.”
Great Bedwyn CofE Primary School has 197 students on roll aged between 4 to 11. For more information click here.