Bowlish Infant School

Overview

Bowlish Infant School is described as a "friendly and welcoming school" where pupils feel "safe and happy" due to a strong culture of kindness. The report confirms the school remains "good," highlighting a "broad and ambitious curriculum" and effective support for pupils with special educational needs.

Strengths

• Pupils demonstrate high levels of enthusiasm and resilience, often continuing with work "even if they find it challenging."
• Staff model "early language and communication skills well" and use correct subject terminology in mathematics.
• The teaching of phonics is "consistent from Reception to Year 2," with books matched closely to pupils’ reading abilities.
• Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are "well supported," with needs identified quickly and appropriate help provided.
• Behaviour is excellent, underpinned by clear expectations and the school’s "golden rules," with bullying being "very rare."

Areas to improve

• Teachers do not always "identify gaps in pupils’ knowledge quickly enough," meaning some children fall behind without swift support.
• Leaders need to ensure gaps in learning are identified promptly so children can "catch up quickly."
• The offer of school clubs has not fully resumed post-pandemic, resulting in "fewer opportunities for pupils to take part in."

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are "effective," with staff being "vigilant for signs that a pupil might be at risk of harm" and receiving support from external agencies when necessary.