Berkley Church of England First School

Overview

Berkley Church of England First School is described as a "happy school with a close-knit community" where pupils "behave well and achieve well." Following a period of leadership instability, the school has strengthened its governance and teaching, resulting in a "safe, calm" environment where pupils are "ready for the next stage of their education."

Strengths

• Leaders have raised expectations, leading to pupils "progressing more securely through the curriculum" in most subjects.
• Attendance is improving, with staff monitoring absences closely and providing support for disadvantaged pupils.
• Behaviour is well-managed through clear expectations, resulting in a school where "low-level disruption is rare."
• Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are "well prepared for the next stage of their education" following improved support strategies.
• The personal development programme is "well-thought-out," helping pupils understand fundamental British values and access effective pastoral support.

Areas to improve

• Leaders should ensure the curriculum, particularly for speaking and listening, is "clearly sequenced" so pupils build communication skills progressively.
• Governors need a "comprehensively" clear understanding of national performance comparisons to better challenge leaders on impact.
• Staff must ensure pupils form letters correctly in writing to prevent the embedding of misconceptions.

Safeguarding

The safeguarding standards are met, with leaders establishing "an open culture in which safeguarding is everyone's responsibility" and concerns are actively managed.