At Sherston Church of England Primary School, we are proud of the positive outcomes recognised in both our Ofsted and SIAMS inspections. These reports reflect the dedication of our staff, the enthusiasm of our children, and the strength of our school community.
Our most recent Ofsted inspection highlights the quality of education, care and support that pupils receive. Inspectors recognised that “pupils are well prepared for life beyond school”, reflecting our commitment to developing confident, resilient learners who are ready for the next stage in their education.
As a Church of England school, our SIAMS inspection also celebrates the distinctiveness and impact of our Christian vision. It recognises how our values underpin daily school life, shaping pupils’ character, wellbeing and understanding of the wider world.
We are delighted to share key strengths from our latest reports below. These excerpts give an insight into what makes Sherston Primary such a special place to learn and grow. The full report can be found below.
Attendance & Behaviour
Pupils' attendance is a significant strength of the school. Attendance is significantly above national figures. Clear expectations and robust systems ensure that pupils, including those who are disadvantaged, attend regularly and punctually. Leaders work proactively with families to remove any obstacles and promote the importance of high attendance. All staff contribute to this. The positive relationship between school and families means that pupils enjoy coming to school.
Achievement
Published outcomes show that pupils' achievement is above other pupils nationally. Pupils achieve well in the phonics screening test and at the end of key stage 2 in reading and mathematics. This indicates that generally, pupils are well prepared for the next stage in their education.
Inclusion
This is an inclusive school. Staff quickly identify pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and those with barriers to learning or wellbeing. They provide tailored support. For example, service pupils receive additional pastoral support if their parents and carers are deployed abroad.
Personal Development & Wellbeing
The school’s personal development programme supports pupils' social and emotional wellbeing. Pupils are morally grounded individuals who know the difference between right and wrong. They actively ensure that everyone is treated as a unique person. Pupils know that tolerance and acceptance are key to a harmonious and respectful school community.
Curriculum & Teaching
The curriculum is broad and ambitious. The school has identified what it wants pupils to learn and in what order. In some subjects, teachers have the knowledge they need to deliver the curriculum effectively. For example, in mathematics, teachers ensure that pupils use their knowledge of times tables well to tackle more challenging concepts, such as converting fractions to decimals. Typically, teaching ensures that pupils can recall what they have learned previously. For example, Year 6 pupils confidently recall the journey of a river, including subject-specific vocabulary.
Early Years
Leaders have prioritised developing the early years. The learning environment supports children to build independence. It is calm, orderly and organised. Leaders have identified the knowledge and skills they want children to learn. Children have the opportunity to practise their reading, writing and number skills. They learn to read sounds from the start. Where needed, children receive support to catch up with their reading.
Children in the early years are happy and safe. Staff build positive relationships with children and know them well. Adults show high levels of care and work closely with parents and carers. Children follow the routines of the school day well.
Leadership & Governance
Governors ensure the school fulfils its statutory responsibilities. There is a commitment from leaders to provide a high quality education for pupils. The school has prioritised improvements to pupils' behaviour and attendance, showing significant improvement.
Staff are valued members of the school. They recognise the support leaders provide to help them manage their workload and wellbeing. Staff appreciate the professional learning programme the school provides. Parents and carers are unwavering in their support for the school and value the inclusive, friendly and family feel that exists.
What it's like to be a pupil at this school
Pupils at this school are well cared for and safe. They skip into school with a desire to learn and a smile on their face. Staff warmly welcome pupils. This ensures they develop a strong sense of belonging. Staff forge positive relationships with pupils and their families. Pupils know they can talk to a trusted adult about any worries or concerns. The school’s high levels of attendance demonstrate the strength of the school’s positive culture.
Pupils demonstrate an eagerness to learn. They speak with enthusiasm about their current learning. Pupils particularly enjoy sharing their knowledge in assemblies. Pupils achieve well compared to others nationally at the end of Year 6 and in the Year 1 phonics screening check. The school secures timely support for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities and those with barriers to learning or wellbeing.