Birdsedge First School

Overview

The report describes a school where pupils are happy and behave “extremely well,” living up to the motto ‘Birdsedge Best’. Leaders are “ambitious for every pupil,” including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, and have implemented a carefully planned curriculum. The inspection notes that “significant improvements have taken place” since the previous visit, resulting in a positive and inclusive environment.

Strengths

• Pupils demonstrate “exceptional personal development” and are “kind and respectful,” with staff noting that pupils are “good when no one is watching.”
• The curriculum is broken down into “small steps,” allowing pupils to build knowledge and skills over time, such as in physical education and mathematics.
• Reading is prioritised as the “basis of learning,” with phonics lessons helping early readers to gain “confidence and fluency.”
• Leaders provide “focused, high-quality training for staff” and ensure the school is inclusive, adapting the curriculum to meet the needs of all pupils.
• Pupils take responsibility for their community and environment, for example through the eco council and by participating in local village events.

Areas to improve

• Leaders should “continue to embed the improved curriculum and teaching strategies” to help pupils fully demonstrate their learning, particularly in writing.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are “effective,” with “very efficient systems in place” and a “strong culture of safeguarding” ensuring adults are vigilant about pupil welfare.